Sourcing Specialist

When IKA's corporate history began in 1910, China had not yet become the People's Republic of China, and the word "globalization" had not even been invented. Today, the IKA Group has more than 900 employees at locations around the world and is proud to serve customers such as BASF, Bayer, and Procter & Gamble. We are the global market leader in many of our product groups and a leading example of innovation, development, and growth. Or, as our slogan says: "IKA - Designed to work perfectly."

IKA is seeking an on-site Sourcing Specialist responsible for the timely procurement of materials to support manufacturing, sales, and facility operations while ensuring quality, cost-effectiveness, and on-time delivery. This role focuses on identifying sourcing opportunities, implementing cost-reduction strategies, and strengthening supply chain efficiency. The Sourcing Specialist will research and qualify alternative domestic and international suppliers for existing materials and components currently sourced from Asia and Europe, while supporting both existing product lines and new business needs as they arise.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Procure materials and supplies to support organizational demands while balancing quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
• Continuously identify opportunities to reduce overall material and purchasing costs.
• Evaluate supplier quotes, pricing, and services to determine the best sourcing options.
• Monitor supplier performance, resolve issues, and maintain strong relationships with approved suppliers.
• Identify, evaluate, and qualify new and existing domestic and international suppliers.
• Negotiate pricing, delivery terms, contracts, statements of work, and technical requirements.
• Ensure accuracy of pricing, quantities, delivery schedules, and purchasing records for all procured items.
• Expedite purchase orders and communicate shortages, delays, or material changes to relevant departments.
• Monitor market trends, pricing, and material availability to support production and sales demands.
• Verify supplier compliance with quotations, contracts, and purchase order requirements.
• Coordinate domestic and international shipments, including import/export and U.S. Customs documentation.
• Manage projects and priorities to meet deadlines and business objectives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams and external partners.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Operations, or a related field preferred; equivalent combination of education and 3-7 years of purchasing or sourcing experience will be considered.
• 3-5 years of experience in purchasing, materials management, supply chain, or operations preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, teamwork, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret contracts, quotations, financial reports, and legal documents.
• Strong presentation and communication skills with the ability to interact with all levels of the organization.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, including Excel and Word; SAP experience preferred.
• Strong analytical and mathematical skills with the ability to interpret pricing and financial data.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation, schedules, and departmental reports.
• Willingness to travel as needed.