Finance Specialist (Estimating)

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE:  Specialist, Corporate Finance (Estimating)             

FLSA STATUS:  Exempt

REPORTS TO:  Estimating Manager, Finance

SUMMARY

This is a key position responsible for developing new product quotations to secure new business for the company. It requires the ability to quickly learn and gain a solid understanding of the company’s products and customer requirements, particularly in the application of cost and pricing variables. The role involves working extensively with data, utilizing standardized templates, performing thorough analyses, and reviewing customer documentation to create comprehensive quote packages.

The position requires close coordination and communication with program managers, chief engineers, sales, manufacturing, accounting, and customers to ensure that product quotes accurately reflect the latest customer-requested modifications and engineering updates. Responsibilities include recommending pricing by applying standard rates to manufacturing processes and materials, forming the basis for customer quotations.

Strong mathematical, Excel, organizational, and communication skills are essential. Some direct customer interaction is also required.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop cost estimates for new product quotations, engineering changes, and customer RFQs based on design, material, process, tooling, labor, and overhead inputs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, purchasing, manufacturing, sales) to gather necessary data and assumptions.
• Analyze customer specifications, BOMs, and drawings to determine cost drivers and feasibility.
• Utilize costing software and internal systems to prepare detailed cost breakdowns.
• Support pricing strategy development by analyzing competitive benchmarks and customer targets.
• Evaluate supplier quotes and raw material pricing for accuracy and alignment with estimates.
• Monitor cost variances between estimated and actual costs, providing feedback to improve future quote accuracy.
• Assist in cost reduction initiatives and value engineering analysis.
• Ensure compliance with company financial practices and customer contractual requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, Business, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in cost estimating, pricing, or financial analysis in the automotive industry, preferably with a Tier 1 supplier.
• Solid understanding of automotive manufacturing processes (e.g. molding, painting, wrapping, welding, assembly).
• Strong knowledge of raw materials (e.g. steel, aluminum, plastics).
• Proficiency with Excel and costing software (e.g., aPriori, AutoQuote, or similar).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with quoting to major OEMs (e.g., Ford, GM, Stellantis, Nissan, etc).
• CMS, SAP or ERP system preferred.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Possesses the ability to gather and analyze information and make decisions from a limited number of choices.

• A minimum score of 26   on the Wonderlic Contemporary Cognitive Ability Test.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

This position typically does not require any travel.

DISCLAIMER

The information contained in this job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the job, nor are they intended to be an all-inclusive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job.  Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Agreement to complete all the required post-hire training.