VAVE Engineer

Overview

A well-established HVAC manufacturer is seeking a VAVE (Value Analysis/Value Engineering) Engineer to lead initiatives that improve product cost efficiency manufacturability and competitiveness across multiple product lines. This role combines hands-on technical analysis supplier collaboration and cross-functional teamwork to identify and implement value-driven design improvements without sacrificing quality or performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform teardown analyses and cost breakdowns for HVAC components and systems.

• Conduct competitive benchmarking and gap analysis to uncover design and cost optimization opportunities.

• Apply Design-for-Manufacturing (DFM) and Design-for-Service (DFS) principles to improve product efficiency and reliability.

• Support supplier qualification testing and validation of cost-reduction initiatives.

• Collaborate with sourcing manufacturing and quality teams to execute cost-reduction workshops.

• Present findings and recommendations to internal stakeholders and leadership teams.

• Manage small-scale cost-reduction projects from concept through implementation.

• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to interns or new engineers.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelors degree in Mechanical Manufacturing or related Engineering field (required).

• Experience: 25 years of engineering experience including at least 12 years in product design or manufacturing engineering.

• Technical Skills:

  • Strong understanding of HVAC systems thermodynamics and heat transfer principles.

  • Proficiency in CAD and PLM tools (such as SolidWorks Creo Autodesk Inventor Teamcenter or Windchill).

  • Knowledge of cost analysis DFM/DFS and competitive benchmarking methods.

  • Familiarity with HVAC industry standards including ASHRAE UL AHRI and DOE.

• Preferred: Lean or Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or equivalent).

• Soft Skills: Excellent problem-solving analytical and communication abilities with a strong team-oriented mindset.

Work Environment

Primarily office-based with regular interaction across cross-functional teams. Occasional travel may be required for supplier visits manufacturing support or product teardown activities.