Finance Specialist (Estimating)

Summit Polymers is a leading, global supplier of automotive interior systems including consoles, door panels, and instrument panels. With over 50 years serving the industry, we deliver engineering and product excellence to our customers, on time, in budget, with the latest innovations. JOIN A TEAM WHERE YOU’LL BE CHALLENGED AND valued.

A career with Summit Polymers means working with smart people in a culture that thrives on challenging, meaningful work. At Summit, we look for growth potential with every hire. We don’t just fill seats, we set people on career paths. We’re always on the lookout for smart people who are committed to continuous improvement, customer service and quality.

JOB DESCRIPTION JOB TITLE: Specialist, Corporate Finance (Estimating) FLSA STATUS: Exempt REPORTS TO: Estimating Manager, Finance SUMMARY This is a key position responsible for developing new product quotations to secure new business for the company. It requires the ability to quickly learn and gain a solid understanding of the company’s products and customer requirements, particularly in the application of cost and pricing variables.

The role involves working extensively with data, utilizing standardized templates, performing thorough analyses, and reviewing customer documentation to create comprehensive quote packages. The position requires close coordination and communication with program managers, chief engineers, sales, manufacturing, accounting, and customers to ensure that product quotes accurately reflect the latest customer-requested modifications and engineering updates.

Responsibilities include

recommending pricing by applying standard rates to manufacturing processes and materials, forming the basis for customer quotations. Strong mathematical, Excel, organizational, and communication skills are essential. Some direct customer interaction is also required.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop cost estimates for new product quotations, engineering changes, and customer RFQs based on design, material, process, tooling, labor, and overhead inputs. Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, purchasing, manufacturing, sales) to gather necessary data and assumptions. Analyze customer specifications, BOMs, and drawings to determine cost drivers and feasibility.

Utilize costing software and internal systems to prepare detailed cost breakdowns. Support pricing strategy development by analyzing competitive benchmarks and customer targets. Evaluate supplier quotes and raw material pricing for accuracy and alignment with estimates. Monitor cost variances between estimated and actual costs, providing feedback to improve future quote accuracy.

Assist in cost reduction initiatives and value engineering analysis. Ensure compliance with company financial practices and customer contractual requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Finance, Business, or a related field. 3+ years of experience in cost estimating, pricing, or financial analysis in the automotive industry, preferably with a Tier 1 supplier. Solid understanding of automotive manufacturing processes (e.g. molding, painting, wrapping, welding, assembly).

Strong knowledge of raw materials (e.g. steel, aluminum, plastics). Proficiency with Excel and costing software (e.g., aPriori, AutoQuote, or similar). Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills. Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience with quoting to major OEMs (e.g., Ford, GM, Stellantis, Nissan, etc). CMS, SAP or ERP system preferred. SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Possesses the ability to gather and analyze information and make decisions from a limited number of choices. A minimum score of 26 on the Wonderlic Contemporary Cognitive Ability Test.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS This position typically does not require any travel. DISCLAIMER The information contained in this job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the job, nor are they intended to be an all-inclusive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job.

Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Agreement to complete all the required post-hire training.