Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead detailed cost models for seat components, specializing in complete Armrest assemblies (including structures, foam, trim cover, mechanisms, and integrated electronics).

• Estimate variable and tooling costs for automotive armrest and seating components across different program phases.

• Perform should-cost analysis, supplier cost breakdowns, and benchmarking activities specifically targeting armrest architectures.

• Analyze and validate Bill of Materials (BOM) and identify key cost drivers for plastics, substrates, and kinematics.

• Evaluate manufacturing processes relevant to armrests, such as plastic injection molding, foaming, cutting & sewing, wrapping/binding, and final assembly.

• Support RFQs, sourcing strategies, and supplier negotiations for armrest programs.

• Drive design-to-cost and VA/VE initiatives for armrest optimization in collaboration with engineering teams.

• Manage cost tracking across multiple programs simultaneously, ensuring alignment with financial targets.

• Support NRE (Non-Recurring Engineering) and tooling cost analysis and injection mold investment evaluations.

• Collaborate with global teams across engineering, purchasing, finance, and program management.

Cost engineering activities focused on Armrests and related seat subsystems:

• Armrest Sub-assemblies: Front center armrests, rear seat fold-down armrests, and door-mounted armrest interfaces.

• Mechanisms & Kinematics: Latch mechanisms, hinges, slide runners, cupholder integrations, and height adjusters.

• Foam & Trim: Soft-touch foam pad molding, skin wrapping (fabric, leather, synthetic vinyl), and stitching.

• Plastics & Structure: Core substrates, structural plastic housings, fasteners, and decorative/chrome trim components.

• Electronics: Integrated USB ports, heating modules, and ambient lighting components inside the armrest unit.

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Finance, or Business.

• Experience: Proven expert-level experience in cost engineering, design, release, manufacturing, or processing roles within the automotive industry.

• Domain Expertise: Solid experience developing variable costs and tooling costs for automotive interior or seating components (armrests, consoles, or instrument panels preferred).

• Manufacturing Knowledge: Strong understanding of automotive plastic injection molding, foam molding, textile wrapping, and vehicle development processes.

• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical mindset with high attention to detail and ability to manage multiple programs and cost breakdowns simultaneously.

• Languages: Advanced English (written and oral for global cross-functional communication).