Position Overview
The Costing Engineer is responsible for analyzing customer requirements and developing accurate, competitive, and comprehensive cost estimates for machining, fabrication, and manufacturing processes. This role evaluates drawings, materials, tooling needs, and production methods to determine the most cost-effective solutions and supports both engineering and commercial teams in quoting, project planning, and design-for-manufacturing improvements.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Cost Estimation & Analysis
- Analyze customer drawings, specifications, CAD models, and functional requirements to determine production feasibility and cost drivers.
- Prepare detailed cost breakdowns covering raw materials, machining cycle time, tooling and fixtures, labor, testing, finishing, packaging, and overhead.
- Identify the most cost-effective manufacturing processes by comparing production methods, machining strategies, and tooling options.
- Update cost models and pricing data based on current market trends, supplier quotations, and internal capacity.
Manufacturing Process Evaluation
- Work closely with production and engineering teams to validate manufacturability and confirm the practicality of estimated processes.
- Assess machining methods (CNC turning, milling, cutting, etc.) and determine optimal process flow to maximize efficiency and minimize cost.
- Evaluate tooling, fixturing, and material requirements for new products or customer RFQs.
Design for Manufacturing (DFM) Support
- Provide DFM recommendations to customers aimed at simplifying machining processes, reducing material wastage, and lowering production costs.
- Suggest improvements to part design, tolerances, geometry, and material selection for enhanced manufacturability.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to eliminate unnecessary cost, improve cycle times, and strengthen productivity.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work effectively with Sheet Metal Fabrication, Assembly, Purchasing, Sales, and other departments to ensure accurate and timely costing information.
- Support the Sales/Business Development team during RFQ reviews with technical clarifications and cost-driven insights.
- Coordinate with procurement to obtain updated material prices, supplier quotes, and tooling cost estimates.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Technical Skills
- Strong understanding of CNC machining and cutting technologies.
- Solid knowledge of material science, metals, and machining behavior.
- Understanding of tools, fixtures, jigs, and work-holding principles.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and GD&T.
- Familiarity with manufacturing cost-modeling, quoting tools, or ERP systems is an advantage.
Soft Skills
- Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail.
- Proficiency in communication and effective collaboration with customers and internal stakeholders.
- Ability to multi-task and manage multiple RFQs simultaneously under tight deadlines.
- Problem-solving mindset with a focus on cost, quality, and manufacturability.