Cost Accounting Specialist

Yazaki is a global leader in the research, development, and delivery of vehicle power and data solutions.

Yazaki works with virtually every major auto manufacturer globally, and we've strived to maintain strategic and stable growth throughout our 84-year history. Today, we're looking for energetic people with the potential to perform and the ability to strengthen - and thrive in - the positive work environment we pride ourselves on.

Location: Canton, MI or La Vergne, TN, USA

What we are looking for:

Yazaki is looking for a Cost Accounting Specialist to join our TPNO team. This position can either be at our location in Canton, MI or La Vergne, TN

The Cost Accounting Specialist will be responsible for project financial analysis aligned with Global Project Management processes and rules, with strong focus on manufacturing cost performance, operational efficiency, and plant execution; set clear targets for each division/department, coordinate roadmap implementation with responsible stakeholders, and track results for program review meetings; and facilitate Business Unit profitability improvement by leveraging manufacturing cost analysis, process optimization, and data-driven insights, while driving continuous improvement, innovation, and digitalization of tools and processes. This individual will also work closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Supply Chain, Sales, and Purchasing to coordinate and implement plant-focused profitability improvement actions.

What you will be doing:

• Material Variance Analysis:
  • Analyze and track material cost variances, identify cost drivers, and support actions to improve program profitability. Collaborate with Purchasing and cross-functional teams to resolve material cost issues.
• Financial Analysis for RFQ
  • Support RFQ profitability analysis by validating material cost assumptions, supplier quotes, and sourcing strategies. Identify risks and opportunities to achieve target profitability.
• Financial Analysis During Program Development Phase
  • Monitor material cost changes during development, track open actions, and follow up with Purchasing, Program Management, Sales, and Engineering to maintain financial targets.
• Financial Analysis After Start of Production
  • Compare planned versus actual material costs, investigate variances, support corrective actions, and identify opportunities for cost recovery and profitability improvement.
• Mass Production Profitability Improvement
  • Monitor material cost trends and financial KPIs, support cost reduction activities, and track savings initiatives to improve overall program profitability.
• Continuous Improvement, Innovation & Tools Development
  • Develop and maintain Power BI dashboards, automated reports, and financial tools. Support standardization and process improvements to increase efficiency and visibility.
• Cross-Functional Coordination & Cost Planning Support
  • Coordinate and follow up with Purchasing, Sales, Program Management, Engineering, and Manufacturing on cost-related topics. Support Cost Planning Specialists with financial analysis, reporting, presentations, and business cases. Provide support to Manufacturing Cost Planning Specialists when required.
• Additional Responsibilities
  • Support special projects, ad hoc analyses, management requests, and scenario modeling. Contribute to cross-functional initiatives that support business performance and profitability.

What you will bring to the table:

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Finance, Engineering, Supply Chain Management or closely related field
• Broad understanding of business principles with strong exposure to purchasing operations, supplier management, material cost drivers, and procurement processes.
• Preferred: Minimum of 2 years of experience in Automotive or Manufacturing industry, preferably in a global environment.

What we can provide you:

• A safe collaborative learning work environment that stimulates creativity and exploration
• Diverse teams of experts
• Resources from around the globe
• Supportive leadership and team members to help you do your best work
• Opportunities for professional growth
• Competitive compensation and benefits package including incentive compensation, 401K match, tuition assistance and a generous holiday schedule
• Flexible hybrid schedule

Yazaki North America is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, disability, handicap, veteran status, or other legally protected status or characteristic. Equal opportunity extends to all aspects of the employment relationship. Yazaki North America complies with federal and state equal employment opportunity laws and strives to keep the workplace free from all forms of harassment.