Contract Cost Estimator Job Summary:

An automotive plastics manufacturer in Wyoming, MI is seeking a skilled Cost Estimator for a contract assignment supporting new product development, engineering changes, and ongoing cost analysis. This role works closely with Engineering, Sales, Industrialization, Program Management, and Purchasing to generate accurate product costs throughout the lifecycle of tooling, development, and production. The ideal candidate is analytical, detail-oriented, and experienced in manufacturing cost modeling, preferably within automotive or plastics.

Cost Estimator Key Responsibilities:

Maintain accurate and current product cost data for all manufactured and purchased components Prepare unit cost estimates for new product quotations, engineering changes, and customer requests Work closely with Engineering, Sales, Industrialization, and Purchasing to gather materials, routing, and process data needed for cost models Support Program Managers during product development and post-tool kickoff phases Collaborate with the Cost Accounting Manager to maintain accurate cost standards and support annual cost roll processes Assist Finance during annual standard cost reviews to reflect updated production and material costs Participate in cost studies, special projects, and year-end audit activities Ensure all cost estimates reflect anticipated material increases, labor rates, and production variables Review and validate manufacturing routings, inventory flow, and cost inputs for accuracy Perform other duties as assigned in support of

Engineering and Cost Accounting Schedule & Compensation:

Schedule:

Full-Time, Contract Position Pay:

$85k-$105k/YR, based on experience

Qualifications & Skills:

Required:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Finance, Business, or related field—or equivalent experience 4-8 years of experience in cost estimating, cost accounting, engineering support, or manufacturing analysis Strong understanding of manufacturing routings, inventory flow, and product cost structure Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word; ability to manage complex spreadsheets Strong analytical skills with high attention to detail and accuracy Ability to work cross-functionally with Engineering, Finance, Sales, Purchasing, and Operations Strong reasoning and problem-solving abilities, including the ability to interpret technical data, drawings, and manufacturing instructions Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability, statistics, geometry, fractions, ratios, and percentages

Preferred:

Experience with ERP/MRP systems; Infor ERP (MAPICS) highly preferred We value your privacy! Scammers often use well-known companies/employers, like Specialized Recruiting Group, to create fake job posts on platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed to get personal information from job seekers. We will not ask for secure information until you've completed a phone or in-person interview. Even then, we would only request this information through a secure system and never through text or social media messaging. If you are ever concerned about information that is being requested, please contact our office immediately at 616-281-0611, and we will confirm the authenticity of the job posting. #SRG1

Pay:

$83,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person