Value Analysis / Value Engineering (VA/VE) Engineer

Job Description: Value Analysis / Value Engineering (VA/VE) Engineer Location: IL or NC Position: Contract/ Permanent Role Overview The VAVE (Value Analysis / Value Engineering) Engineer will play a critical role in improving product cost, quality, and manufacturability across Client portfolio of ice machines and related systems. This role focuses on systematic cost-reduction, supplier collaboration, product redesign, and process optimization—while maintaining or improving product performance and customer experience. Key Responsibilities Value Engineering & Cost Optimization Lead VAVE initiatives across existing product lines to reduce material, manufacturing, and lifecycle costs. Analyze components, assemblies, and systems to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality. Conduct teardown and benchmarking studies of internal and competitor products. Develop business cases for proposed engineering changes, including cost–benefit analysis. Product & Component Redesign Work with R&D, design engineering, and manufacturing teams to implement design modifications. Optimize part geometry, material selection, and manufacturing methods to achieve cost and performance targets. Drive standardization of components and modular design principles. Cross-Functional Collaboration Collaborate closely with procurement, quality, operations, and supplier engineering teams. Work with suppliers to evaluate alternative materials, components, and processes. Support supplier qualification and validation activities for new or cost-optimized parts. Manufacturing & Process Improvements Analyze production processes to identify inefficiencies and propose improvements. Work with plant engineering and manufacturing teams to reduce waste, simplify assembly, and enhance overall productivity. Support development of updated work instructions, BOMs, and process documentation. Data Analysis & Reporting Track VAVE project performance against cost-reduction targets. Prepare regular project dashboards, ROI evaluations, and engineering reports. Maintain detailed documentation of design changes, testing, and implementation plans. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field. 3–7 years of experience in VAVE, cost engineering, product engineering, or manufacturing engineering—preferably in HVAC, refrigeration, appliances, or electromechanical equipment. Strong understanding of sheet metal, plastics, refrigeration systems, electrical components, and mechanical assemblies. Experience with CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo, or AutoCAD). Knowledge of DFMA, DFM/DFA, lean manufacturing, and value engineering methodologies. Good understanding of supply chain and sourcing practices. Strong analytical skills and ability to build cost models. Preferred Qualifications Experience in the foodservice equipment, appliance, or refrigeration industry. Hands-on experience working with suppliers (domestic and international). Exposure to quality tools such as FMEA, PPAP, APQP, 8D, and root cause analysis. Knowledge of UL, NSF, and IEC standards applicable to commercial equipment. Soft Skills Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities. Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills. Ability to manage multiple projects and deliver against deadlines. Proactive mindset with a strong drive for continuous improvement. Job Types: Full-time, Contract Pay: $70,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year Benefits: 401(k) Work Location: In person