Cost Estimator

Cost Estimator 

We made history and now we work to transform the future – for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.

In this position... 

As a Pricing Analyst/Cost Estimator within FCSD, you will be a critical link in Ford’s service parts supply chain. You will be responsible for ensuring cost integrity and maximizing profitability by developing data-driven pricing strategies and "should-cost" models. This role requires a unique blend of technical manufacturing knowledge, financial acumen, and the ability to navigate the complexities of low-volume automotive service environments. You will act as a consultant to both internal purchasing teams and external suppliers to justify cost adjustments in an evolving global market.

What you'll do...

• Cost Analysis & Validation: Evaluate the validity of automotive supplier part pricing, tooling, packaging, and contract requests, specifically tailored to low-volume service requirements.
• Should-Cost Modeling: Develop and maintain "should-cost" estimates to provide a baseline for negotiations and financial planning.
• Economic Impact Assessment: Calculate and explain pricing adjustments resulting from changes in manufacturing processes, volume fluctuations, and macroeconomic factors like inflation.
• Data Analytics: Analyze large, complex, and sometimes incomplete data sets to extrapolate trends, establish facts, and draw actionable conclusions.
• Stakeholder Management: Present and defend cost changes to internal and external stakeholders who may have competing agendas, ensuring transparency and alignment with Ford’s financial goals.
• Market Intelligence: Data mine public indexes (e.g., steel, plastic, labor indices) to anticipate market shifts and their impact on the supply base.
• Manufacturing Knowledge: Foundational understanding of manufacturing processes, including stamping, machining, injection molding, casting, and assembly.
• Volume Sensitivity: Ability to analyze how the transition from high-volume production to low-volume service impacts unit costs and overhead absorption.
• Analytical Rigor: Strong ability to define problems, collect relevant data, and establish valid conclusions in "grey space" environments with minimal direction.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to translate technical cost data into clear business narratives.
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel (data modeling, pivot tables) and PowerPoint. Ability to read and interpret engineering blueprints.