Value Analysis Engineer

Global Connect Technologies • Dearborn • 16h ago

Job Title: Value Analysis and Value Engineer

Location: Dearborn, MI

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced VAVE (Value Analysis / Value Engineering) Engineer with strong expertise in automotive underbody and exhaust system components. The ideal candidate will drive cost optimization initiatives, support product design improvements, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, cost-effective engineering solutions without compromising performance, safety, or manufacturability.

This role requires deep knowledge of sheet metal design, manufacturing processes such as stamping and welding, and hands-on experience with cost breakdown and should-cost analysis in automotive product development environments.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Value Analysis and Value Engineering (VAVE) activities for automotive underbody and exhaust system components.
Analyze product designs and manufacturing methods to identify cost reduction and value improvement opportunities.
Develop and validate cost-saving concepts while maintaining product functionality, quality, and performance.
Perform detailed should-cost analysis, benchmarking, and cost breakdown evaluations for components and assemblies.
Collaborate with design, manufacturing, purchasing, suppliers, and program teams to implement optimized solutions.
Support teardown studies, competitive benchmarking, and cost workshops.
Review and optimize sheet metal part designs for manufacturability and assembly efficiency.
Work closely with suppliers to evaluate tooling, process improvements, and material optimization opportunities.
Support design releases and engineering changes using PLM systems and OEM processes.
Participate in cross-functional reviews related to quality, manufacturing feasibility, and program timing.
Ensure compliance with automotive standards, customer requirements, and program deliverables.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field.
5+ years of experience in automotive product development, VAVE engineering, or cost engineering.
Strong understanding of automotive underbody systems and exhaust components.
Excellent knowledge of sheet metal component design and development.
Hands-on experience with manufacturing processes including:
Stamping
Welding
Part assembly
Experience performing:
Cost breakdown analysis
Should-cost analysis
Cost optimization studies
Proficiency with CAD and PLM tools such as:
CATIA
NX
Teamcenter or equivalent PLM systems
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Ability to work effectively in cross-functional and supplier-facing environments.