NPD & Cost Optimization Specialist

Komatsu
life insurance, 401(k)
United States, Wisconsin, Shawano
1407 Industrial Drive (Show on map)
Sep 09, 2025
Job Description Apply now NPD & Cost Optimization Specialist Posting Start Date: 9/9/25 Job Location (Short): Shawano, Wisconsin, USA, 54166 Requisition ID: 33976 Onsite or Remote: Onsite Position Join Komatsu and Be Part of Something Big! Job Overview Serves as the primary sourcing liaison for New Product Development initiatives, New Business Development, and other related product enhancement initiatives. Works with Engineering to support sourcing strategies, policies, procedures, and provides support with the sourcing selection process. Initiate and manage RFI's, RFP's, and RFQ's for NPD and make recommendations for sourcing. Understands and communicates forecast volumes for NPD. Interfaces with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Aftermarket on the scheduling / capabilities of production to meet requirements for the OE build and the global Aftermarket material needs. Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Quality, Logistics, Commercial, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain to assure all project targets are achieved (SLQDC). Liaison with Plant Purchasing and support negotiations as needed. Develop and control cost estimation (VT1) and schedule for New Product Development. Key Job Responsibilities Implements the overall strategies and processes in the development / implementation for establishing the "extended enterprise" in procuring and negotiating with channel supply partners/customers. Responsible for the creation, innovation, and development of key Supply Chain initiatives to support New Product Development, Critical Component Sourcing, Region Localization, BCC, and Country of Source determination. Report out savings potentials at key meetings. Drive cost out and cost optimization initiatives. Achieve supply chain efficiencies, cost management, global utilization of inventories and capacities, optimize material/product movement, promote partnerships with suppliers and customers and as per the short- and long-term strategic initiatives. Conducts cost analysis - WCT, Theoretical cost calculations (should be cost). Perform industry research to identify qualified supplier candidates to meet business needs. Benchmark best in class suppliers. Work with Category Managers to make suggestions that support NPD/Cost Optimizations. Provide analytic techniques to support complex sourcing and supply chain projects. Ongoing evaluation of the supply base in the areas of market research, product quality, competitive pricing, capability, and capacity. Perform SWAT analysis. Review and adhere to project plans and provide regular reports and status updates to management. Creation and analysis of reports as specified by management. May be required to perform other related duties as required or assigned. Analyze, reconcile, and approve/reject OVC invoices related to Purchase Price variance (PPV), Tariff surcharge, Steel surcharge, Currency Exchange surcharge, Ocean / Air freight variance. Coordinate with plant accounting monthly to make accruals where necessary to ensure accurate plant financial statement. Analyze and report monthly cost transition of each current production model for SVC and OVC categories. Calculate Value Target (VT1) SVC for NPD products. Lead "Simultaneous Development Activity" with Design Engineering, Plant Manufacturing, Sourcing, and Manufacturing Engineering to continually reduce VT1 and increase manufacturing efficiency of new models. Report VT1 transition at each Milestone of standard KES development process: Proposal Evaluation Meeting; Commodity Evaluation Meeting; Development Plan Evaluation; Commercialization Plan Evaluation. Report progress to mother plant as necessary. Qualifications/Requirements BS. Degree in Supply Chain, Operations Management, or Business or minimum 5-years' experience with relevant working experience in Purchasing, Materials, or Manufacturing roles. Experience with calculating manufacturing costs. Ability to make decisions and solve practical problems with a variety of variables in situations where standardization may be limited. Ability to interpret technical data and a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form. Experience working in an ERP (SAP and/or Syteline) environment. Computer systems and networks development. Data management and reporting. High competency in MS Excel, MS Word, MS Access, MS Power Point, MS Visio. Excellent verbal and written communication skills required. Additional Information Company Benefits Komatsu provides an extensive and robust employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members. We embrace a positive and empowering employee experience with a culture that prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment. Health benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA, wellness programs, etc. 401k and/or employee savings programs Employee time off (vacation and designated holidays) Employee and family assistance programs Disability benefits Life insurance Employee learning and development programs Diversity & Inclusion Commitment At Komatsu, we come from diverse backgrounds, with unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions.We are committed to creating a workforce that is reflective of the communities we work and live in. We believe that our people are part of our shared purpose. Connected by our core values of ambition, perseverance, collaboration and authenticity, we are committed to continually advancing in our support of diversity and inclusion. United, we are on a journey towards a sustainable future that creates value together. Company Information Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more than 140 countries. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Since the company's founding in 1921, Komatsu has been committed to supporting individuals and communities through job training, skills development and giving back. As a Komatsu employee, you will be encouraged to grow alongside our global company, contributing to a more sustainable future for all. If you are looking for a company that values your talent and potential, join Komatsu to be a part of something big and help advance modern society. Learn more at www.komatsu.com. EEO Statement Komatsu is an Equal Opportunity Workplace and an Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Apply now