Entry Level Cost Engineer
The Entry Level Cost Engineer at Confidential Client supports vehicle and component cost analysis for global manufacturing programs by developing cost models, analyzing supplier quotes, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. This role focuses on identifying cost drivers and savings opportunities while ensuring quality and performance, offering exposure to advanced automotive technologies and strong career growth potential.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Automotive Manufacturing.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Overview
Confidential Client (via Careertakes) is hiring an Entry Level Cost Engineer for an Automotive Manufacturing contract role in Auburn Hills, MI. This role supports vehicle and component cost analysis across global manufacturing programs. You will collect and analyze cost data, build and maintain cost models, compare supplier quotations to internal targets, and partner with engineering, purchasing, and manufacturing to identify cost drivers and savings opportunities. The position provides exposure to EV and software-defined vehicle programs and strong opportunities for learning and career growth.
What You’ll Do
- Analyze vehicle and component cost data to support manufacturing programs
- Develop and maintain cost models and cost estimates for parts and systems
- Compare supplier quotations to internal cost targets and benchmarks
- Support make-vs-buy and sourcing decisions with data-driven cost analysis
- Collaborate with engineering, purchasing, and manufacturing to identify cost drivers
- Support value-engineering and cost-reduction initiatives while preserving quality
- Prepare cost reports, presentations, and dashboards for stakeholders
- Monitor cost performance over program lifecycle and flag variances
Qualifications & Skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, Economics, or a related field
- Familiarity with manufacturing processes and automotive components
- Proficiency in Excel (advanced spreadsheets) and comfort with data analysis tools
- Knowledge of cost modeling, cost estimating, and financial modeling concepts
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and presentation skills
- Ability to work cross-functionally and communicate clearly with engineers and procurement
- Internship or project experience in manufacturing or automotive preferred
Compensation & Job Details
- Location: Auburn Hills, MI (on-site / local)
- Employment type: Contract
- Salary: $76,000 - $92,000 per year (provided by client)
Benefits
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Life insurance
- 401(k)
Why Apply via Careertakes
- Third-party recruiting support and transparent process — Careertakes helps match you to this role and other opportunities that fit your profile.
- Exposure to cutting-edge automotive programs (EVs, software-defined vehicles).
- Hands-on cost engineering experience with mentoring and cross-functional collaboration.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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