Value Engineering & Should cost analyst

Primary Responsibilities

• Support the development and maintenance of should-cost models across key commodity categories including plastics, metals, electronics, and assemblies.
• Collaborate with the Senior Analyst and cross-functional teams to gather data inputs (BOMs, 3D models, supplier quotes) required for cost modeling and analysis.
• Prepare detailed cost breakdowns, validate supplier cost inputs, and format findings for review by Engineering, Procurement, and Finance.
• Assist in tracking cost-saving opportunities through data analytics, dashboards, and supplier benchmarking.
• Maintain internal cost databases, libraries, and documentation to ensure consistency and data accuracy across global programs.

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Collect and analyze cost data (materials, labor, overheads) from suppliers and internal systems.
• Format and prepare parametric model inputs in tools like aPriori, Excel, or similar tools.
• Support the documentation of modeling assumptions, outputs, and change logs.
• Conduct price variance and cost trend analysis to identify anomalies or opportunities.
• Assist in preparing reports and presentations for senior leadership and sourcing teams.
• Help monitor commodity price indices and update standard rates in the cost models.
• Coordinate with Engineering, R&D, and Procurement teams to ensure timely flow of technical and commercial data.

Knowledge

• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes for plastics, metals, electronics, and assemblies.
• Familiarity with interpreting technical drawings, BOMs, and process routings.
• Exposure to cost analysis or sourcing-related roles in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with MS Excel (lookup formulas, pivot tables), and ability to work with large datasets.
• Awareness of supply chain structures and common cost drivers across direct material categories.

Skills and Competencies

• 3+ years of relevant experience in sourcing analytics, cost engineering support, or procurement operations.
• Exposure to tools like aPriori, SAP, or PLM/CAD systems (SolidWorks/Creo) is a plus.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and data management skills.
• Good communication skills, capable of interacting across teams and geographies.
• Willingness to learn and grow into more advanced modeling and supplier-facing roles.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and timelines with minimal supervision.

Education and Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical or similar) or equivalent technical discipline.
• Lean Six Sigma is preferred.
• Certification or coursework in Excel, cost modeling, or procurement analytics is a plus.