VAVE Engineer – Automotive

Role OverviewWe are seeking an experienced VAVE Engineer with strong expertise in automotive underbody components, sheet metal design, and cost optimization activities. The ideal candidate will work closely with engineering, manufacturing, and supplier teams to support value analysis/value engineering initiatives, should-cost analysis, and product cost reduction activities.Key ResponsibilitiesSupport VAVE activities for automotive underbody and exhaust system componentsPerform should-cost analysis and cost breakdown evaluationsWork on sheet metal part design and manufacturing feasibilityCollaborate with suppliers and cross-functional engineering teams for cost optimization initiativesAnalyze manufacturing processes including stamping, welding, and part assemblySupport teardown benchmarking and cost workshop activitiesUtilize CAD and PLM systems for design reviews and engineering changesEnsure product designs align with cost, quality, and manufacturability targetsRequired SkillsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical / Automotive Engineering or related field5+ years of experience in automotive product development or VAVE / cost engineeringStrong knowledge of:Underbody and exhaust systemsSheet metal part designManufacturing processes (stamping, welding, assembly)Should-cost analysis and cost breakdownExperience with CAD tools such as CATIA or NXStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsExcellent communication and stakeholder collaboration abilitiesPreferred QualificationsExperience working with OEMs or Tier-1 suppliersFamiliarity with Ford systems/processes (GPDS, WERS, AIMS)Experience in teardown benchmarking and supplier collaboration