Cost Engineer

About VDL Industries Gainesville

VDL Industries Gainesville is part of VDL Groep, a global family-owned technology company recognized for its ability to deliver complete, turnkey solutions. We design, build, assemble, and test complex high-tech systems for leading OEMs around the world.

With engineering and production fully integrated, we operate in a high-mix, low-volume environment where precision, innovation, and quality are key. Our teams work on long-cycle projects that require deep technical expertise and close collaboration across disciplines. You will join a company culture that combines the entrepreneurial spirit of a growing U.S. site with the stability and long-term vision of a global family business.

Position Summary

As a Cost Engineer, you translate complex technical designs into accurate, competitive cost models. You play a critical role early in the project lifecycle, influencing manufacturing strategies, supplier involvement, and overall project feasibility. You act as a bridge between Engineering, Sales, and Supply Chain, ensuring alignment between cost, quality, and manufacturability.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop detailed cost calculations for complex assemblies, machining, and fabrication processes
• Analyze technical product documentation (drawings, BOMs, specifications)
• Define manufacturing routes, process flows, and cost structures
• Support make-versus-buy decisions in collaboration with Supply Chain
• Work closely with Engineering, Sales, and Project Management teams
• Evaluate capacity impact, resources, and production feasibility
• Identify cost drivers and opportunities for optimization
• Assess NRE costs, CAPEX/OPEX implications, and production scenarios
• Support post-calculation validation, cost control, and continuous improvement initiatives

Required Skills and Abilities

• Strong analytical mindset with high attention to detail
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes (machining, fabrication, assembly)
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and GD&T
• Experience with CAD/CAM tools (SolidWorks preferred)
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 or similar quality systems
• Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies
• Strong communication skills across technical and commercial stakeholders

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent experience
• Minimum of 5 years in cost engineering, manufacturing engineering, or similar
• Experience in high-tech industries such as semiconductor, aerospace, or medical is preferred

Why This Role Stands Out

• Be involved at the front-end of highly complex, high-tech projects
• Work in a turnkey environment where you influence how systems are built end-to-end
• Join a growing, dynamic U.S. organization with strong global backing
• Informal and collaborative culture with short decision lines
• Long-term, technically challenging projects instead of repetitive work
• Strong benefits and a stable, long-term-oriented employer