Value and Cost Engineer

Value and Cost Engineer

Responsibilities

• Lead cost estimation activities including should‑cost, cost modelling, and top‑down/bottom‑up analyses for engineered products
• Conduct detailed cost analyses and validate supplier cost breakdowns and manufacturing processes
• Support sourcing activities for Design‑to‑Cost projects to ensure cost‑effective outcomes
• Identify and support Value Added/Value Engineering (VA/VE) opportunities to optimize total product cost
• Analyze tools and part costs for mechanical and electronic components and maintain cost databases

Provide analytical input for supplier negotiations through fact‑based insights and benchmarks
Conduct cost audits to validate accuracy, transparency, and compliance with expected cost structures
Identify cost‑reduction opportunities and efficiency improvements at suppliers
Develop cost models to support product design early in development (Design‑to‑Cost, DfM, DfSC)
Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (Engineering, Procurement, Sales) to gather data and assess risks
Provide regular reporting on cost saving initiatives and support central decision‑making (target costing, benchmarking, make‑or‑buy analysis, budgeting)

Qualifications

Technical background in mechanics, mechanical engineering, production engineering, or similar
Degree in Mechanical Engineering HF/FH or equivalent
Over 5 years of experience in cost engineering, development, value engineering, or strategic procurement
Demonstrated experience with cost modelling and supplier cost analysis
Experience working in complex global organizational environments
Background in machinery, vacuum technology or semiconductor‑related production is beneficial
Experience coordinating cross‑functional or category‑focused teams
Solid project management experience
Strong skills in Microsoft Excel; PowerBI is an advantage
Strong analytical and problem‑solving mindset
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to influence outcomes through expertise (without direct authority)
Ability to manage multiple priorities
Strong risk‑based analytical approach
Effective collaboration and stakeholder management
Fluent in English; good German is preferred (or alternative profile: strong German + B1 English)