Manufacturing Cost-Out Engineer

Location: **This is a 50% Travel, 50% on-site role which can be based in Elizabethville PA, Elizabethton, TN, or Van Alstyne, TX**

Travel: Up to 50%

Salary: $120,000 - $140,000

About the Role

We are seeking a driven Manufacturing Cost-Out Engineer to spearhead cost reduction and efficiency initiatives throughout manufacturing operations. This pivotal position will concentrate on enhancing materials, processes, product design, and supply chain costs while upholding quality, safety, and service standards.

You will collaborate closely with engineering, operations, procurement, and suppliers to unearth cost-saving opportunities and lead projects that enhance profitability and operational performance.

What You’ll Do

• Drive Cost Reduction Initiatives
• Identify and prioritize opportunities to reduce costs in materials, manufacturing, logistics, and products
• Build and manage a pipeline of cost-saving projects with clear targets and timelines
• Develop and execute structured cost-reduction plans
• Improve Products & Materials

• Evaluate products for cost optimization (Design-to-Cost / Design-for-Manufacturing)
• Reduce costs through material optimization, component simplification, and standardization
• Work with suppliers on alternative materials and design improvements
• Optimize Manufacturing Processes

• Analyze production processes (forming, assembly, packaging)
• Reduce labor, scrap, rework, and cycle times
• Support automation and tooling improvements where feasible
• Lead Cross-Functional Projects

• Partner with engineering, operations, quality, and supply chain teams
• Lead projects across multiple manufacturing sites
• Ensure proper documentation, risk assessment, and process controls
• Partner with Suppliers

• Support cost analysis and negotiations
• Identify opportunities for supplier consolidation, alternative sourcing, and design changes

Analyze Data & Track Results

• Build cost models for products and processes
• Track savings, ROI, and project progress
• Maintain dashboards and reporting tools

What You Bring

Experience & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or related)
• 5–10 years of experience in manufacturing, value engineering, or cost reduction
• Experience in manufacturing environments (building products or similar industries preferred)

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing and process improvement
• Cost modeling and data analysis (Excel, ERP systems)
• Ability to identify cost drivers in products and processes
• Experience working cross-functionally and driving projects to completion
• CAD experience is a plus

How Success Is Measured

• Annual cost savings achieved
• Reduction in cost of goods sold (COGS)
• Number of projects implemented
• Improvements in material usage, scrap reduction, and labor efficiency
• ROI from automation and process improvements

Additional Details

• Location: Onsite (preferably PA, TN, or TX)
• Travel: Up to 50%
• Work Environment: Mix of office and manufacturing floor
• Seniority Level: Mid-Senior level
• Industry: Wholesale Building Materials, Retail Building Materials, and Garden Equipment