Cost EngineerAutomotive Conversions (Metals Focus) - Initially a 3 - 6 month contract, potetnial to go permanentHybrid working (mostly WFH, with an "as and when" requirement to attend site).Travel and hotels are paid for by the company when onsite working is required.Office is located in Pontypool, South Wales. Overview We are recruiting a Cost Engineer to support specialist low-volume automotive conversion programmes. This role sits at the intersection of engineering detail and commercial decision-making, with a particular emphasis on metal components and tooling. The role has high visibility, close stakeholder access, and genuine influence over programme cost, supplier strategy, and design decisions. Key Responsibilities Build detailed cost breakdowns for conversion parts, assemblies, and tooling Develop and maintain cost models across metal components (fabrication, machining, tooling, finishes) Support Engineering teams with cost insight to optimise designs for manufacture and assembly Compare target costs vs supplier quotations, identifying gaps, risks, and cost-reduction opportunities Partner closely with Procurement and Supply Chain to challenge supplier assumptions and validate pricing Track cost impacts arising from design changes, supplier changes, and low-volume production effects Maintain accurate cost data throughout the product development and conversion lifecycle Support ongoing seating programme activity with structured cost analysis Required Background Strong exposure to metal components and metal manufacturing processes (essential) Degree-qualified Engineer (Mechanical, Manufacturing, Materials or similar) Proven experience in cost engineering / cost analysis / should-costing Understanding of automotive manufacturing, tooling, and supply chain cost drivers Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, BOMs, and technical data Strong Excel capability and a structured, analytical mindset Confident communicator able to work across Engineering, Procurement, and Finance Desirable Experience Automotive seating, interiors, or structural components Low-volume or specialist vehicle programmes Supplier cost negotiation and value engineering activity