Strategic Procurement Lead for Manufacturing

Senior Procurement Specialist Full-Time Exempt Administration Anaheim, CA, US We are seeking a detail-oriented and strategic Procurement Specialist to join our dynamic team. This role plays a key part in ensuring materials and services are acquired efficiently, cost‑effectively, and in alignment with production goals and customer satisfaction targets. DUTIES: Manage the complete procurement lifecycle - from supplier sourcing and terms negotiation to execution and management of purchase orders. Forecast material needs and work closely with suppliers to ensure timely, accurate delivery aligned with demand. Engage in root cause analysis and resolve issues related to invoice and inventory discrepancies, and material non‑conformance. Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, ensuring adherence to quality, service, and delivery expectations. Maintain and update ERP system planning data, including lead times, lot sizes, and safety stock parameters. Monitor and maintain inventory levels within established guidelines, offering insight and recommendations as needed. Communicate shipment commitments to Order Management and Operations teams, providing real‑time updates on component shortages affecting production and sales order delivery targets; actively participate in weekly production and manufacturing planning meetings to align cross‑functional priorities and mitigate risks. Act as a key stakeholder in the Engineering Change Order (ECO) process. Drive value creation initiatives through cost savings and continuous process improvements. Proactive and results‑oriented, with a sense of urgency. Effective communicator – clear, concise, and collaborative. Able to thrive in a cross‑functional, fast‑paced environment with a high‑mix/low‑volume production model. Represent the Procurement team with professionalism and integrity—both internally across the Econolite Group and externally with suppliers—always aligned with company culture and core values. QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field. Equivalent work experience considered. Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in procurement role; including, sourcing, supplier management, purchase term negotiations. Previous experience in a manufacturing environment; familiarity with traffic related equipment and electronic components is a plus. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel (Advanced formulas, PivotTables, Macros). Experience with Enterprise Resource and Material Requirements planning systems (Microsoft Dynamics D365 and PowerBI a plus). APICS or other supply chain certifications preferred. Solid understanding of procurement principles and supply chain strategies. Strong negotiation skills and ability to manage supplier relationships with confidence. Detail‑focused with a strong analytical mindset and problem‑solving skills. PRE-EMPLOYMENT All candidates who accept employment will be subject to a background investigation and drug screening. For applicable roles, candidates who accept employment will also be subject to a Motor Vehicle/Driving Record screening. BENEFITS This role is eligible for benefits: weekly pay, weekly PTO accrual, paid holidays. Various medical plans, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, direct deposit. Basic life, LTD, 401k discretionary match. Other voluntary benefits include: Identity theft protection. COMPENSATION The base salary range for this full‑time position is $68,700 - $85,000 per year plus incentive and benefits. Salary ranges are determined by various factors, including role, experience, and location. The salary range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for this position. Within the range, actual individual compensation is determined by various factors, including location, job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. TRAVEL Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally, including Baja California, Mexico, up to 10–15% as needed. DISCLAIMER The above statements are intended to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. They are not designed to contain or be interpreted as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, skills, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, lactation, ancestry/national origin, citizenship, age, disability, arrest and court records, military & veteran's status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, or any other classification protected by state or federal law. We prohibit Retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination. An Equal Opportunity Employer - Non-Smoking Facility #J-18808-Ljbffr