Lear Corporation

Senior Manufacturing Cost Engineer

Lear Corporation$85K — $110K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field with finance background.
  • 4+ years of experience in manufacturing or cost engineering within the automotive sector.
  • Preferred experience with automotive seating or high-volume assembly.
  • Solid grasp of labor standards and manufacturing processes.
  • Expertise in cost modeling techniques and capital equipment analysis.
  • Advanced Excel skills; experience with Foundry and Power BI is a plus.
  • Proficient in cross-functional communication with various teams.

Responsibilities

  • Develop cost estimates and models for customer quotes and new business ventures.
  • Create detailed labor, equipment, overhead, and capital cost analyses for new programs.
  • Assist program teams with cost assessments for engineering changes and launches.
  • Collaborate with Operations to validate labor standards and capacity assumptions.
  • Support capital planning through ROI analysis and equipment justifications.
  • Track actual manufacturing performance against quoted costs and address discrepancies.
  • Advocate for continuous improvement in seating assembly operations.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
  • Opportunities for professional development and training.
  • Flexible work schedules to promote work-life balance.
  • Employee wellness programs and resources.
Full Job Description
SENIOR MANUFACTURING COST ENGINEER

SOUTHFIELD, MI - WORLD HEADQUARTERS

Position Summary:

Reporting to the AME Costing Manager, the Senior Manufacturing Cost Engineer is responsible for developing and maintaining manufacturing cost models that support quoting, program launches, engineering changes, and continuous improvement activities within a JIT automotive seating environment. This role works closely with AME, Operations, Finance, Purchasing, Program Management, and Commercial teams to ensure manufacturing assumptions are accurate, competitive, and aligned with plant performance objectives.

The ideal candidate brings a strong understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, labor standards, capital equipment, and cost drivers associated with high-volume assembly operations.

Responsibilities
  • Develop manufacturing cost estimates and cost models to support customer quotations and new business opportunities.
  • Create detailed cost estimations for labor, equipment, overhead, and capital assumptions for new program launches.
  • Support program teams with cost evaluations related to engineering changes, launch activities, and operational improvements.
  • Partner with Operations and Industrial Engineering to validate labor standards, cycle times, and plant capacity assumptions.
  • Support capital planning activities, including ROI analysis and equipment justification.
  • Monitor actual manufacturing performance versus quoted assumptions and identify gaps and corrective actions.
  • Support continuous improvement activities across seating assembly operations.


Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field with education and/or experience in finance.
  • 4+ years of experience in manufacturing, industrial, or cost engineering within the automotive industry.
  • Experience supporting automotive seating, interiors, or high-volume assembly operations preferred.
  • Strong understanding of labor standards, manufacturing processes, and cost modeling methodologies.
  • Experience with program launches, customer quotations, and capital equipment analysis.
  • Advanced Excel skills required; Foundry and Power BI experience preferred.
  • Ability to communicate effectively across engineering, operations, finance, and commercial teams.


Preferred Experience
  • Tier 1 automotive supplier experience.
  • JIT/JIS manufacturing environment.
  • Seating assembly, metal structures, foam, trim, or final assembly operations.
  • Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.


Location Code: 0123

About Lear Corporation

The Lear Corporation is a Fortune 500 company with world-class products designed, engineered and manufactured by a diverse team of talented employees. As a leading supplier of automotive seating and electrical, Lear serves its customers with global capabilities while maintaining individual commitment. With headquarters in Southfield, Michigan, Lear maintains 221 locations in 36 countries around the globe and employs approximately 122,000 employees. Lear is traded under the symbol [LEA] on the New York Stock Exchange.

Lear Corporation Careers

Join the dynamic team at Lear Corporation, a global leader in automotive technology, and be part of a company that's driving the future of the industry. At Lear, we offer unparalleled job opportunities and a culture of innovation that fosters growth and leadership. Work You’ll Do At Lear Corporation, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, working together to solve complex challenges and revolutionize automotive technology. Our team is composed of over 75,000 professionals worldwide, dedicated to excellence in every aspect of our business, from design and production to management and support. Lear is not just about professional growth but also about personal development. We believe in nurturing our team's skills through continuous learning and diversity training, ensuring every member is equipped to lead in their field. Innovative Work Join Lear Corporation and be at the forefront of automotive innovation. Our commitment to cutting-edge technology and sustainable solutions allows us to lead the market in creating advanced vehicle seating and electrical systems. Your work at Lear will contribute directly to advancements that redefine what vehicles can do. Be Part of a Great Team Lear Corporation is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every team member feels valued. We celebrate diversity and believe it drives innovation. By joining Lear, you become part of a global network of professionals who share a passion for excellence and a commitment to developing smarter solutions together. Future-Proof Your Career Lear offers a range of career paths, from engineering and design to finance and marketing. No matter where your interests lie, you will find opportunities to advance. Our robust benefits package supports your lifestyle and well-being, allowing you to focus on professional development and career advancement. Explore Job Opportunities and Internships Whether you're a seasoned professional looking for your next challenge or a student seeking a rewarding internship, Lear Corporation has positions to match your skills and ambitions. Explore our job opportunities and discover how your talents can make an impact. Lear Corporation Employment Benefits At Lear, we understand that our employees are our greatest asset. That’s why we offer competitive benefits that enhance your health, wellness, and financial security. From comprehensive health insurance to retirement plans and employee discounts, we provide the benefits you need to succeed both at work and in life. Stay Connected Join Our Team Ready to advance your career at Lear Corporation? Search open positions that align with your skills and interests. We are always on the lookout for curious, creative, and driven team members. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest company news, career tips, and industry insights—all from the people who work here. Lear is a place where you can grow your career and make a significant impact. Networking and Professional Development At Lear, networking and professional development are part of our DNA. We encourage our employees to connect, share ideas, and inspire each other, while our leadership programs help you develop the skills you need to lead. Interview and Resume Tips Get ready to join Lear Corporation. Check out our career blog for interview tips and resume advice that will help you stand out from the crowd. Discover what it takes to succeed in the hiring process and start your journey with us. Lear Corporation is more than just a place to work—it’s a place where you can make a difference. Join us and drive your career forward while shaping the future of mobility.
Learn more about Lear Corporation
Size
160,100 employees
Market Cap
$7.2 billion
Industry
Net Income
$158.5 million
Founded
1917
5 Year Trend
+0.7%
Revenue
$17 billion
NASDAQ

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Lear Corporation

More Manufacturing & Automotive Jobs

Find similar Senior Manufacturing Cost Engineer jobs: