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Vehicle Cost Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

New Model- Automotive Accessories

Raymond, OH · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Cost Engineer This role focuses on evaluating product designs for manufacturability and cost, developing detailed should-cost models, and supporting sourcing and negotiation activities with data ...

Gleason

Proposal Engineer - Pricing & Cost

Rochester, NY · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Gleason products are used by customers in e-mobility, commercial vehicles, aerospace, agriculture ... Position Summary The Proposal Engineer - Pricing & Cost is responsible for developing technically ...

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Vehicle Cost Engineer information

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$5

$41

How much do vehicle cost engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for vehicle cost engineer in the United States is $41.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.35 and $41.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Is QC engineer a good career?

A QC (Quality Control) engineer plays a vital role in ensuring product quality through inspection, testing, and process improvement. The career offers stability, opportunities for specialization, and requires skills in testing tools and quality standards like ISO or Six Sigma. It can be a good career choice for those interested in quality management and technical problem-solving.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior vehicle cost engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in cost analysis and engineering management, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles in automotive or aerospace industries often offer such compensation, particularly in leadership positions or with specialized skills in cost modeling and project management.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

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 engineers make 200,000 a year?

Senior vehicle cost engineers, especially those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in cost analysis and financial modeling, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level engineers in automotive or aerospace industries often reach this salary level, particularly in senior or managerial roles with specialized skills and responsibilities.
More about Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs
What states have the most Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs? For Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Vehicle Cost Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vehicle Cost Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,134 per year, or $41.4 per hour.
Vehicle Accident Reconstructionist - Atlanta, GA

Vehicle Accident Reconstructionist - Atlanta, GA

Rimkus

Atlanta, GA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 hours ago

Job description

Rimkus ( is a worldwide leader in Engineering and Technical Consulting. Rimkus experts specialize in building envelope, engineering, forensic consulting, dispute resolution, construction management services, and solutions built for the environment.

NOW IS THE TIME to join this growing and stable company!  We offer our full-time employees a competitive salary, bonus opportunities and a full benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, disability, employer-matching 401(k), and opportunities for advancement! 

Overview

Responsible for investigating, analyzing, and reconstructing vehicular accidents and investigating failures involving vehicle systems (brakes, steering, throttle, engine, etc.). Duties include analyzing single- and multiple-vehicle collisions, speeds, roadway drag factors, reaction times, impaired and non-impaired driving behavior, lamps, tires, time-distance relationships, and injury correlation to collisions. Prepare and present demonstrative diagrams, charts, and analyses of the cause and origin of various collisions. May also inspect and analyze automotive or mechanical parts for the origin and cause of failure. Document and preserve evidence obtained, prepare written reports of findings and provide expert testimony in litigation as necessary. 

Essential Job Functions

  • Reconstruct vehicular accidents using engineering analysis, CAE-based tools, and test data where appropriate.
  • Provide collision scene evidence analysis and forensic mapping of collision sites and vehicles.
  • Inspect cars, trucks, and other various forms of transportation.
  • Perform damage analysis, speeds from damage (energy), coefficient of friction of roadway, time and distance relationships, lamp analysis, occupant kinematics, vehicle dynamics, perception and reaction times, braking efficiency of air brake systems on commercial motor vehicles, and intersection traffic signal analysis.
  • Inspect and analyze automotive parts or mechanical parts to determine the cause of failure.
  • Analyze product liability, design, and safety. 

At Rimkus, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We are committed to creating a work environment that supports and celebrates the unique perspectives and experiences of all employees. If you share our commitment to diversity and inclusivity and are excited about joining a welcoming and supportive team, we encourage you to apply for our open positions.

Rimkus is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employee and will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. 

THIS JOB DESCRIPTION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT FOR EMPLOYMENT OR A GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT.

#LI-JD1

Requirements

Requirements

Required Education and Certifications

  • B.S. Mechanical Engineering preferred. 
  • P.E. license preferred. 
  • Master's degree in mechanical engineering preferred.
  • 2-10+ years' of Accident Reconstruction experience preferred.

Required Skills and Abilities

  • Professional/industry working experience in vehicle accident reconstruction. 
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Independent judgment; strong analytical skills.
  • Ability to provide expert witness testimony.
  • Must be sharp, focused, and alert when conducting site/vehicle inspections. 
  • Speaking and interacting with clients, preparing written reports of findings, and testifying in deposition or trial.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Work From Home

Apply