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Salary: USD 140,000 - 190,000 / annual
Valar Atomics is building scalable, factory-made advanced nuclear systems to power industry, hydrogen production, and next-generation manufacturing. The company is developing its first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah, and is backed by Series A funding.
As Senior Cost Engineer within the Manufacturing/Supply Chain organization, you will lead cost engineering and should-cost modeling efforts to support sourcing strategy, supplier negotiations, and make-vs-buy decisions as the company scales production.
Key responsibilities include:
• Develop and maintain comprehensive should-cost models for components, assemblies, and services, incorporating materials, labor, overhead, and tooling across direct and indirect categories.
• Analyze supplier quotes, RFx responses, and cost breakdowns to identify gaps versus should-cost benchmarks and validate pricing.
• Partner with Sourcing, Engineering, and Finance to identify cost drivers, high-impact savings opportunities, and negotiation leverage across the supply base.
• Support Make-vs-Buy analysis and total cost of ownership evaluations as sourcing options are evaluated.
• Track cost trends (materials, labor, logistics) and update models to reflect market conditions and supply chain dynamics.
• Identify and quantify cost reduction opportunities through design, process, or sourcing changes.
• Present cost analysis and recommendations to Sourcing and Engineering leadership.
• Maintain cost databases and tools, improving accuracy and scalability as the product portfolio grows.
• Mentor supply chain team members on cost drivers, market indices, design/cost implications, supplier economics, and manufacturing trade-offs.
This is a high-impact role in a fast-growing startup where you will have significant ownership and autonomy. You will work directly with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders to help build transformative energy technology from the ground up.
REQUIREMENTS:
Basic Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Supply Chain, or related technical field
• 5+ years of experience in cost engineering, should-cost modeling, or manufacturing cost analysis
• Strong understanding of BOM structures, specifications, engineering drawings, manufacturing processes, and cost drivers
• Hands-on experience with cost modeling tools and ERP/sourcing systems
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to translate data into actionable recommendations
• Excellent communication skills and ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders
Preferred Skills and Experience:
• Nuclear, aerospace, or other highly regulated industry experience
• Experience building a should-cost or cost engineering function from the ground up
• Familiarity with Design-to-Cost or Value Engineering methodologies
• Start-up / fast-growth company experience
