Manufacturing Procurement Specialist -- Production Planning & Control

Job Description

Job Description

Manufacturing Procurement Specialist — Production Planning & Control

Location: Mendota Heights, MN

Department: Production Planning & Control

Reporting To: Master Scheduler

Type: Full-time

Is this you?

• Do you turn forecasts and MRP signals into timely, accurate purchase orders?
• Can you negotiate pricing and terms that improve cost while protecting quality and delivery?
• Are you fluent in ERP, data analysis, and supplier scorecards?
• Do you thrive coordinating with production, planning, and engineering to meet tight deadlines?
• Are JIT, inventory reduction, and consolidation strategies part of your toolkit?

What you will do

• Initiate, process, and verify POs in accordance with established procedures.
• Expedite late orders; manage changes, returns, replacements, and credits.
• Meet with internal stakeholders to review requisitions, material needs, and priorities.
• Coordinate with production and planning to ensure procurement needs are met.
• Keep accurate records of purchasing activity, supplier communications, and contracts.
• Evaluate and develop suppliers using cost, quality, delivery, responsiveness, and scorecard data.
• Conduct on-site supplier visits to assess capabilities, products, services, and pricing.
• Identify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers to strengthen the supply base.
• Participate in supplier meetings, trade shows, and industry events to stay current on trends.
• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms to achieve cost savings and favorable agreements.
• Analyze market trends and pricing proposals to ensure competitive sourcing.
• Track and report key purchasing metrics to boost efficiency and reduce costs.
• Monitor inventory levels to ensure material availability and avoid overstock.
• Support JIT initiatives, inventory reduction efforts, and purchasing consolidation.
• Forecast quantities and delivery requirements for high-volume materials.
• Adhere to all safety, medical, OSHA, and ISO requirements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What you bring

• Proven negotiation skills with a track record of favorable outcomes.
• Comfort analyzing market data, supplier proposals, and financial information.
• End-to-end understanding of procurement processes and supplier management.
• Contract management experience with strong compliance focus.
• Inventory management and demand planning know-how.
• Detail orientation, organization, and accuracy in documentation.
• Problem-solving agility and resilience amid supply chain disruptions.
• Clear, professional communication across suppliers and teams.
• Strong time management in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.
• Timely, informed decision-making aligned to business goals.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office.
• Collaborative, safety-minded approach with excellent interpersonal skills.

Preferred qualifications

• APICS certification (CPIM, CSCP, or similar) preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or related field preferred.
• 3+ years in purchasing or procurement within a manufacturing environment.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Experience purchasing raw materials: stainless steel, aluminum, cold roll, hot roll, bar stock, hardware, and packaging materials.
• Knowledge of material specifications and tolerances.
• Vendor scorecard management with accountability for quality, delivery, pricing, compliance, and responsiveness.
• ERP expertise (JobBOSS preferred) and strong Microsoft Outlook/Excel skills.
• Background in manufacturing or job shop production preferred.

Physical requirements

• See, hear, and maintain visual focus for detailed tasks.
• Frequent standing, walking, and movement throughout the day.
• Regular hand use for handling, reaching, and operating office equipment.
• Sustain focus and accuracy over long shifts.
• Lift up to 25 lbs regularly and up to 50 lbs occasionally.

Why join us

Be part of a collaborative production and planning team where your purchasing decisions directly support manufacturing success. Influence cost and inventory strategies, partner closely with suppliers and internal teams, and drive continuous improvement in a stable, growth-focused environment.

Tools and proficiencies

• ERP & MRP systems (ERP software; JobBOSS preferred)
• Microsoft Excel and Outlook
• Supply chain management
• Sourcing and procurement
• Supplier negotiation
• Contract negotiation
• High School diploma or GED

Location: Saint Paul MN