As a Costing Engineer with 4 to 6 years of experience in the sheet metal industry, your role bridges engineering, procurement, and finance to drive profitability through accurate estimation and cost optimization.
Key Responsibilities
- Cost Estimation & Analysis: Perform detailed Zero-Based Costing (ZBC) for recent and existing parts. This includes evaluating raw material (RM) components, machine hour rates (MHR), labor, and overheads.
- RFQ Management: Conduct initial drawing studies for customer Request for Quotation (RFQ) packages. Verify and validate technical specifications to ensure feasibility and on-time quote delivery.
- Variance Analysis: Monitor project expenditures against budgets. Identify and report cost deviations and variances, implementing corrective actions to prevent overruns.
- Material & Scrap Optimization: Calculate gross input weights and material utilization percentages. Minimize costs by optimizing material nesting and analyzing scrap rates for different cutting processes (e.g., laser, plasma).
- Customer & Vendor Interaction: Act as the primary point of contact for technical and commercial clarifications with customers.
Negotiate with vendors for competitive pricing on raw materials and bought-out items.
- Cost Reduction Initiatives: Lead Value Analysis and Value Engineering (VAVE) activities to identify cost-saving opportunities through design or process improvements.
Technical Skills Required
- Manufacturing Processes: Deep understanding of sheet metal fabrication including stamping, bending, welding, laser cutting, and surface treatments (painting, plating).
- Software Proficiency: Hands-on experience with AutoCAD or SolidWorks for design reviews, and SAP or similar ERP systems for cost tracking and documentation.
- Analytical Tools: Advanced proficiency in MS Excel for cost modeling, price rollups, and RM price trackers.
- Engineering Standards: Knowledge of GD&T; (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) and APQP/PPAP processes for part development.
Experience & Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree (B.E./B.Tech) in Mechanical, Production, or Industrial Engineering.
- Experience: 4 to 6 years of proven experience in product costing, specifically within the sheet metal or automotive industry