Senior Cost Engineer – Cost Analysis, Special Studies

General Motors

. Create, analyze, and validate component material costs and targets .

Posted 11/5/2026full-timeWarren • Michigan • United StatesSeniorWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in automotive cost estimating and manufacturing processes, with a strong ability to analyze complex cost data and lead cross-functional initiatives. Proficient in developing cost models and improving analytic tools while effectively collaborating with global teams.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Automotive Cost EstimatingCross-Functional LeadershipFinancial Evaluation of Technical ConceptsMicrosoft Excel ProficiencyProduction Process Knowledge

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Cost AnalysisCost ModelingData-Driven AnalysisNegotiation PreparationCost EstimationAnalytic Tool DevelopmentSupplier Component Quote DevelopmentAutomotive Manufacturing KnowledgeMentoring and CoachingComplex Initiative Leadership

Soft Skills

Effective CommunicationInterpersonal SkillsAnalytical Problem-SolvingConflict ResolutionInfluencing Without Authority

Tools & Technologies

Microsoft OfficeMS ExcelGMCO$TVisMockupFTI

Industry Keywords

Automotive ManufacturingCost-Focused DiscussionsProduction Tooling EstimatesComponent CostsComplex Assignments Management

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Assembly

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Create, analyze, and validate component material costs and targets
Generate ground-up and detailed material cost estimates, including piece price and production tooling estimates
Collaborate with product engineering, purchasing and supply chain, vehicle program teams, global partners, and external suppliers
Analyze and translate large amounts of data into clear, actionable insights
Partner with the internal GPSC purchasing team to provide fair and competitive component costs
Prepare analytic fact bases for complex negotiations and sourcing decisions
Travel occasionally to domestic supplier facilities for costing collaboration and support
Support assigned GM SMT/PMT from tooling and piece price perspectives
Lead cross-functional cost forums and working sessions, including cost reviews, sourcing preparation, and resiliency/indexation workstreams
Align Engineering, GPSC, PD Finance, and Program teams on cost assumptions and recommendations
Own and continuously improve core cost models, standards, and analytic tools
Design and champion dashboards, templates, trackers, and other process/tool improvements
Mentor and coach less experienced cost engineers and SMTAs/PCMAs
Review complex estimates and PIM updates and provide developmental feedback
Operate as a subject-matter expert, lead complex initiatives, influence senior stakeholders, and shape cost strategies

Requirements

What you’ll need

At least 4 years relevant experience in automotive cost estimating, automotive manufacturing, automotive product design / engineering, or automotive purchasing
Track record of leading complex, cross-functional cost initiatives or projects
Demonstrated leadership in driving cost-focused cross-functional discussions
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Engineering, or related/relevant field of study, or substantial cost estimating experience
Experience in financial evaluation of technical concepts
Comprehensive understanding of production processes
Ability to manage multiple complex assignments with high autonomy
Ability to lead change, resolve conflicts, and influence without direct authority
Ability to analyze and communicate large amounts of cost data
Analytical problem-solving ability and data-driven analysis skills
Effective communication and interpersonal skills for global and cross-functional collaboration
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, with expertise in MS Excel
Ability to use or learn GMCO$T and related tools such as VisMockup and FTI
Ability to define standards and best practices
Comprehensive automotive manufacturing process knowledge
Ability to work without GM immigration-related sponsorship now or in the future
Preferred: supplier component quote development, automotive manufacturing or launch experience, knowledge of plastic/injection molding, die casting, stamping, electronics, subcomponent assembly, large module system assembly, cost model/analytics/process improvement, and mentoring/coaching experience

Benefits

Comp & perks

Benefits and Total Rewards resources supporting well-being at work and at home
Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities
Inclusive, non-discriminatory workplace
Employee development and belonging-focused culture