RiteScreen is redefining the window and door screen industry. As North America’s largest manufacturer, we combine scale, speed, and innovation to deliver smarter solutions to our customers. We’re a fast-moving, results-driven organization where continuous improvement isn’t a buzzword, it’s how we win.

The Cost-Out Engineer is responsible for identifying, developing, and executing cost-reduction initiatives across the company’s window and door screen manufacturing operations. This role focuses on material optimization, process improvement, product design simplification, and supply chain cost reduction while maintaining product quality, service levels, and safety standards.

This position operates at the intersection of engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and continuous improvement, and plays a critical role in delivering measurable cost savings through structured cost-reduction programs.

Key Responsibilities

Cost Reduction Program Development

Identify and prioritize cost-reduction opportunities across materials, manufacturing processes, logistics, and product design
Develop structured value engineering roadmaps and project charters aligned with company objectives
Build and maintain a pipeline of cost-reduction initiatives with defined savings targets and timelines

Product and Material Value Engineering

Conduct Design-for-Manufacturability (DFM) and Design-to-Cost (DTC) evaluations
Identify cost-saving opportunities through:- Material optimization (e.g., aluminum, mesh, components, spline)
- Hardware simplification
- Packaging improvements
- SKU standardization
Partner with suppliers to evaluate material substitutions or specification changes

Manufacturing Process Optimization

Analyze production processes including metal forming, assembly, and packaging
Identify and implement improvements to reduce:- Labor content
- Scrap and rework
- Cycle time
- Material waste
Support automation and tooling improvements where appropriate

Cross-Functional Project Leadership

Lead cost-reduction projects across engineering, operations, quality, and supply chain teams
Coordinate implementation across multiple facilities
Ensure appropriate updates to PFMEA, control plans, and work instructions

Supplier Cost Reduction

Partner with procurement and suppliers to drive cost transparency and should-cost analysis
Support negotiations with data-driven cost models
Identify opportunities for supplier consolidation, alternate sourcing, and value engineering redesigns

Data Analysis and Reporting

Develop cost models for products, components, and processes
Perform should-cost analysis on key materials (e.g., aluminum extrusions, fiberglass mesh, hardware, packaging)
Track and report on:- Project pipeline
- Realized savings
- Implementation status
- Return on investment (ROI)

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field required
5–10 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, value engineering, cost reduction, or lean manufacturing environments
Experience in fenestration, aluminum extrusion products, building products, or similar industries preferred

Skills & Competencies

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Experience with cost modeling and should-cost analysis
Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies
Familiarity with PFMEA and manufacturing risk assessment
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems
CAD experience preferred
Ability to collaborate cross-functionally and influence stakeholders
Strong project management and execution skills

Performance Metrics

Success in this role may be measured by:

Annual realized cost savings
Cost reductions as a percentage of cost of goods sold (COGS)
Number of implemented cost-reduction initiatives
Improvements in material utilization and scrap reduction
Labor efficiency gains
ROI of automation or tooling investments

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

Work is performed in both office and manufacturing environments.
Travel may be up to 50%
May require standing, walking, and periodic lifting up to [insert weight, e.g., 25 lbs]
Ability to travel between facilities as needed

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, age, or any other legally protected status.

You should be proficient in:

Experience in a Manufacturing Environment