Cost Engineer (Design-to-Cost / VAVE)

We are currently seeking a highly motivated Cost Engineer with a strong Design-to-Cost and VAVE focus to join our dynamic team at AVATR Global Design Center. In this role, you will lead cost optimization initiatives from the early stages of product development, with a strong focus on engineering design decisions. You will actively influence product architecture, materials, and manufacturing concepts at early design stages, ensuring cost targets are achieved by design rather than post-development optimization.

What you will do

• Own and drive cost targets across concept and development phases, ensuring alignment with design maturity (CAD/BOM)
• Analyze and optimize cost impact of design concepts through design simplification, material selection, and manufacturing process improvements
• Lead Design-to-Cost activities and challenge engineering solutions to achieve cost-efficient product designs
• Act as a key interface between R&D, Purchasing, and suppliers, driving design reviews and technical discussions on cost-performance trade-offs
• Develop cost models, benchmarks, and transparency to track cost evolution and ensure target achievement
• Drive continuous improvement of Design-to-Cost methodologies and support strategic VAVE initiatives

What you will bring

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in automotive product design and development, with proven hands-on experience in component or system design
• Solid experience in Design-to-Cost, cost engineering, or VAVE, with strong understanding of cost drivers across design and manufacturing processes
• Ability to work with CAD data (e.g., CATIA, NX) and interpret technical drawings to evaluate cost implications
• Strong analytical mindset with experience in cost breakdown and should-cost analysis
• Ability to influence engineering decisions and effectively collaborate across R&D, Purchasing, and suppliers
• Fluent in English; German is a plus

What we offer

• Competitive Salary: Reflecting your skills and experience.
• Hybrid Working: Flexibility to work both remotely and in the office.
• Annual Leave: 30 days of paid annual leave.
• Health & Wellness: Access to the Wellhub Pass for your well-being.
• Employee Development: Learning opportunities and training programs to support your career growth.
• Transport Support: Deutschland ticket or fuel card.
• Meal Allowance: For lunch at the canteen.
• Gifts: Celebratory gifts for work anniversaries and Chinese New Year.
• Company Events: Regular team-building and social activities.
• Inclusive Culture: A diverse, supportive environment where every voice is valued.