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Vehicle Cost Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Early ‐ phase cost engineering estimates, Detailed "should ‐ cost" calculations using a bottom ‐ up manufacturing approach * Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development ...

Supporting the Vehicle Cost Manager (Serial Life) in executing PCS/TPC and program economics ... Partnering with cross-functional teams (Engineering, Purchasing, MGA/Plant, S&M, FP&A) to validate ...

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets ...

Provide Engineering support during vehicle development phase for target achievement (Design to Cost) * Development of tooling costs for new programs. * Provide purchasing support during supplier ...

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets ...

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets ...

The Cost Engineer role develops detailed cost estimates for components and tooling using an ... Provide idea generation and cost support during vehicle development to help achieve cost targets ...

DESIGN TO COST: • Provide Engineering with support during the vehicle development phase for target achievement (Design to Cost) • Release cost engineering estimate by reference or through bottom ...

MeC offers his consultancy services in Cost Engineering to determinate the cycle times and costs of ... tooling for all vehicles; 2) cost evaluating and collaborating product change notices; 3) ...

MeC offers his consultancy services in Cost Engineering to determinate the cycle times and costs of ... tooling for all vehicles; 2) cost evaluating and collaborating product change notices; 3) ...

Provide Engineering support during vehicle development phase for target achievement (Design to Cost) * Development of tooling costs for new programs * Provide purchasing support during supplier ...

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This role is responsible for developing detailed cost estimates for vehicle components and tooling using an activity-based costing approach . Cost Engineers will work directly with bills of materials ...

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Vehicle Cost Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$4

$36

How much do vehicle cost engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle cost engineer in Michigan is $36.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.06 and $36.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Vehicle Cost Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vehicle Cost Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or automotive engineering, strong analytical skills, and experience with cost estimation methods. Familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) software, cost modeling tools, and advanced Excel functions is typically required, along with knowledge of manufacturing processes. Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and suppliers. These skills are crucial for accurately forecasting costs, optimizing budgets, and ensuring the financial viability of vehicle development projects.

How does a Vehicle Cost Engineer typically collaborate with design and manufacturing teams during a vehicle development project?

Vehicle Cost Engineers play a critical role in cross-functional teams, working closely with both design and manufacturing departments throughout the vehicle development process. They provide cost estimates and analyses for different design options, helping to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality. Regular meetings and open communication with engineers, suppliers, and procurement specialists are essential, as Vehicle Cost Engineers must ensure that proposed changes align with budgetary constraints and project timelines. This collaborative environment allows them to influence key decisions and contribute to the overall financial success of new vehicle launches.

What does a Vehicle Cost Engineer do?

A Vehicle Cost Engineer is responsible for analyzing and estimating the costs involved in designing, manufacturing, and assembling vehicles. They work closely with engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and finance teams to ensure that vehicles are produced within budget while meeting quality and performance standards. Their duties include evaluating material costs, labor expenses, and supplier quotes, as well as identifying cost-saving opportunities throughout the development process. Vehicle Cost Engineers play a crucial role in maximizing profitability and maintaining competitiveness in the automotive industry.

What is the difference between Vehicle Cost Engineer vs Vehicle Design Engineer?

AspectVehicle Cost EngineerVehicle Design Engineer
Primary FocusCost analysis, budgeting, and cost reduction strategies for vehiclesDesign, development, and engineering of vehicle components and systems
Required SkillsCost estimation, financial analysis, supply chain knowledgeCAD design, engineering principles, innovation in vehicle design
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, cost departments, supplier interactionsDesign studios, engineering labs, R&D departments
Common CertificationsNone specific, often requires engineering degreeEngineering degrees, CAD certifications

The Vehicle Cost Engineer primarily focuses on managing and reducing vehicle production costs through analysis and budgeting, while the Vehicle Design Engineer concentrates on creating and developing vehicle designs. Both roles require engineering backgrounds but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Vehicle Cost Engineer job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $75,074 per year, or $36.1 per hour.
Vehicle Cost Engineer

Vehicle Cost Engineer

A-Line Staffing Solutions

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$43.08/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Cost Engineer (Contract) – Automotive Auburn Hills, MI $43.08/hour 1-Year Contract (Potential for Extension/Conversion) Shift: First Shift (subject to adjustment based on global team collaboration) Position Overview We are seeking experienced Cost Engineers to support a leading automotive organization in Auburn Hills, MI. This role is responsible for developing detailed cost estimates for vehicle components and tooling using an activity-based costing approach. You will work hands-on with bills of materials, engineering drawings, and physical samples to understand manufacturing processes and accurately estimate component, production, and investment costs.

This role partners closely with global teams across engineering, purchasing, finance, and suppliers to ensure competitive and transparent cost structures from concept through production. Multiple openings are available across various vehicle component areas, including Body, Interior, Chassis, Engine Adaptation, Electrical Systems, and Powertrain . Candidates will be aligned based on experience and business needs.

Key Responsibilities Develop cost estimates for new vehicle programs, including: Early-phase cost projections Detailed "should-cost" models using bottom-up manufacturing analysis Support Design-to-Cost initiatives by providing cost guidance during product development Partner with purchasing teams during supplier negotiations by conducting gap analyses on: Piece price Engineering, Design & Development (ED&D) Tooling costs Perform benchmarking and value optimization, including lifecycle cost assessments Collaborate with global engineering, purchasing, finance, and supplier teams Provide global cost comparison and analysis across programs Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field Minimum 5 years of automotive or relevant technical experience Strong written and verbal communication skills in English Ability to manage high volumes of components with varying complexity Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word Strong cross-functional collaboration skills across global teams Preferred Qualifications Experience with activity-based costing and cost modeling structures Background in one or more of the following: Design Engineering Manufacturing Engineering Tooling Development Component Purchasing What We're Looking For Analytical mindset with strong attention to detail Curiosity and problem-solving ability Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, global environment Strong collaboration and communication skills Why Apply? Competitive hourly pay at $43.08/hour Opportunity to work with a global automotive leader Exposure to cross-functional and international teams Potential for long-term opportunities .


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About A-Line Staffing Solutions

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A-Line Staffing Solutions is an established full-service recruiting and staffing provider that operates in the industry of human resources and recruitment. Based in Utica, Michigan, A-Line Staffing Solutions has been committed to its mission of providing innovative and effective workforce solutions since its foundation. The company specializes in providing high-quality staffing solutions for a range of disciplines, including Information Technology, Professional, Administrative, Healthcare, and more. A-Line prides itself on its ability to offer comprehensive and tailored staffing solutions in line with the varying needs of different businesses, which has played a crucial role in the company's growth and success.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Utica, MI, US

Year founded

2004

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