Procurement Specialist

Job Description Job Description Procurement SpecialistJob Mission: The Procurement Specialist ensures the timely, cost-effective, and quality acquisition of goods and services that support the organization’s operational and strategic goals. This role safeguards company resources by managing supplier relationships, clarifying purchasing terms, and maintaining compliance with purchasing policies to drive efficiency, value, and reliability across the supply chain. Responsibilities:Procurement Coordination Coordinate the purchasing of raw materials, components, and services required for production. Review and process purchase requisitions to ensure alignment with production schedules and inventory targets. Prepare and issue purchase orders, track deliveries, and follow up to ensure materials arrive on time to meet manufacturing needs. Supplier and Vendor Management Communicate with suppliers to obtain quotes and confirm lead times. Support supplier qualification and performance evaluations based on quality, cost, delivery reliability, and responsiveness. Maintain current supplier records, pricing data, and certifications in the procurement system. Inventory and Cost Control Monitor material usage and stock levels in coordination with production and inventory control teams. Assist in managing material replenishment to prevent production delays or excess inventory. Identify cost-reduction opportunities through alternative sourcing or bulk purchasing. Documentation and Reporting Maintain accurate records of purchase orders, contracts, and supplier communications. Track order status and generate reports on delivery performance, cost trends, and purchasing metrics. Support financial reconciliation by resolving discrepancies between purchase orders, receipts, and invoices. Compliance and Process Improvement Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements. Assist with continuous improvement initiatives to streamline purchasing processes and strengthen supplier performance. Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production teams to support new product introductions and material changes. Skills and Competencies:Practical and Technical Skills Procurement and Supply Chain Knowledge of purchasing processes, procurement policies, and supplier management practices. Understanding of manufacturing supply chains, including lead times, material planning, and production scheduling. Ability to read and interpret bills of materials (BOMs), part specifications, and technical drawings. Systems and Software Proficiency Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems, such as Microsoft Dynamics, for tracking orders, inventory, and supplier data. Strong Microsoft Excel skills, including formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis, along with familiarity with other Microsoft Office applications. Experience using e-procurement platforms or vendor management tools. Analytical and Data Management Skills Ability to analyze purchasing data to identify cost trends, supplier performance issues, and savings opportunities. Strong attention to detail when verifying quantities, pricing, and delivery information. Ability to prepare procurement and cost analysis reports. Compliance and Documentation Understanding of quality standards, safety requirements, and regulatory compliance in manufacturing. Ability to maintain accurate purchasing records and documentation for audits. Managerial Skills Problem-Solving and Adaptability Respond quickly and effectively to changing priorities, supply disruptions, or urgent production needs. Apply critical thinking to resolve delivery, quality, or pricing issues with minimal impact on manufacturing operations. Attention to Detail and Accountability Maintain accuracy and consistency in documentation and purchasing transactions. Take ownership of tasks, follow through on commitments, and demonstrate reliability under tight deadlines. Integrity and Professionalism Handle confidential pricing and supplier information responsibly. Demonstrate fairness, honesty, and ethical conduct in all procurement activities. Interpersonal Skills Communication and Coordination Communicate clearly with suppliers, internal teams, including production, engineering, and logistics, and management. Effectively multitask and prioritize orders in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Provide timely updates on order status, delivery issues, and supply chain risks. Collaboration and Teamwork Work effectively with cross-functional teams, including production, engineering, logistics, and finance, to ensure material availability and cost efficiency. Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to support smooth operations and problem-solving. Requirements: Education ~ Bachelor's or associate degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field preferred. Certifications ~ None required. Travel Expectations ~ Minimal travel, with occasional trips to other company sites as needed.