COST ESTIMATOR

The Future is Made by You: Ready, Set, Ford At Ford, we are not just a car company; we are a movement. We are undergoing a massive transformation to lead the electric and digital revolution. This requires a culture of speed, purpose, and—above all—integrity. Our Ready, Set, Ford mindset means we are prepared for the challenges of tomorrow, we are set on our goals of innovation and belonging, and we are moving forward together.

Cost Estimating Analyst for EDS (Electrical Distribution System), interfacing with key stakeholders in Purchasing (Supply Chain), Product Development (including Programs), Material Cost, and Finance, for all matters related to part costs for Wiring commodities. This role requires a strategic influencer who can manage an ambiguous environment.

• Develop piece cost and tooling estimates for assigned commodities which requires an extensive understanding of manufacturing cost structure and supply base capability.
• Support teardowns, benchmark standard methodologies, and identify material cost reduction opportunities.
• Actively support strategic commodity initiatives with relevant cost analyses.
• Support cost target setting, commercial pricing agreements, and change control processes for forward and current model vehicle programs by delivering accurate estimates including detailed cost gap analysis.
• Ensure reasonable, physicals-based, Best-In-Class assumptions for part manufacturing of their respective commodities, and convincingly convey principles to stakeholders & partners.
• Demonstrate strong understanding of differences between Activity Based Costing, volume-based costing, and “Should Cost”.  Provide technical guidance and variance explanations between Activity Based Costing, suppliers’ costing methodologies, and “Should Cost” estimates.
• Facilitate and participate on supplier plant visits, preferably with Supply Chain and STA, to support benchmarking, data gathering, training, negotiations, or other activities as needed to ensure physicals-based cost estimates, quantifiable gap analyses, and viable cost reductions.
• Provide negotiation support to Supply Chain as they engage senior supplier representatives to achieve material cost reductions.
• Deliver robust cost estimates and analyses in support of Program Lifecycle, Team Value Management, Benchmarking, etc., as required to drive design and commercial cost reductions.
• Contribute your extensive expertise to the Cost Estimating team as we continuously refine our chosen agile framework and modern ways of working.
• Earn and maintain your status as the agile and modern ways of working subject matter expert through continuous learning and application of your knowledge to solve tough, complex issues.
• Be a trusted advisor to senior leaders as they continuously refine their organizations for the present and future.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (+3 years Finance/Purchasing/Engineering experience).
• Experience: 3+ years in automotive component manufacturing processes, specifically in EDS (Electrical Distribution Systems).
• Advanced English Skills.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in data analytics and costing software (FACTON, Apriori, or Siemens). Ability to assess cost benefit analysis of different supplier manufacturing methods.
• Manufacturing Knowledge: Expertise in Electrical (Required), Metal Stamping, and Plastic Molding processes.
• Innovation: Proven track record in Agile transformation and the use of AI to improve costing efficiency.
• Core Skills: Strong ability to analyze blueprints/3D models, persuasive storytelling for stakeholder alignment, and a "bias-for-action" mindset.
• Clear, concise, and persuasive communication skills with strong Microsoft Excel, Power BI, PowerPoint, and Word capabilities

The following skills and experiences are Preferred qualifications for this role:

• Bachelor of Science Engineering
• Knowledge of GPDS timeline and Cost Estimating support provided at key milestones
• Knowledge of Global Material Cost Strategies
• Knowledge of Lean principles (value stream maps, takt time, etc.) preferred

 

Join our Ford Cost Estimating Team and be at the forefront of shaping innovative solutions as we create tomorrow!