Procurement Specialist
Aston CarterJob Title: Procurement Specialist Job Description The Procurement Specialist supports a growing manufacturing organization by leading strategic purchasing, supplier management, and cost-saving initiatives. This role ensures that parts, materials, and components are available to meet production demands while consistently achieving quality, delivery, and cost objectives. You will partner closely with cross-functional teams to optimize the supply chain and directly influence product quality, cost reduction, and overall production performance. Responsibilities Procure parts, materials, and components to support ongoing manufacturing operations and production schedules. Manage supplier relationships, including pricing negotiations, contract discussions, and performance monitoring. Drive cost reduction initiatives and identify strategic sourcing opportunities to improve value and reduce total cost. Coordinate with engineering, quality, finance, and operations teams to align purchasing activities with business needs. Support inventory availability by monitoring material levels and resolving supplier quality concerns and invoice discrepancies. Manage engineering change notices, supplier communications, and requests for quotations to ensure timely implementation and accurate pricing. Evaluate and qualify new domestic and international suppliers to strengthen the supply base and mitigate risk. Analyze supplier costs, manufacturing processes, and value improvement opportunities to enhance overall supply chain efficiency. Perform procurement analysis, source selection, and strategic sourcing activities to support production and business objectives. Oversee supplier performance, including on-time delivery, quality metrics, and responsiveness, and implement corrective actions when needed. Coordinate import logistics and related documentation to support international sourcing activities. Maintain accurate purchase orders and procurement records within ERP systems and other tools. Collaborate with internal stakeholders to support continuous improvement initiatives in purchasing and supply chain processes. Essential Skills Bachelor's degree, preferably in a business, supply chain, or related field. 3+ years of purchasing or buying experience within a manufacturing environment. Strong knowledge of procurement principles, supplier negotiations, and cost analysis. Demonstrated experience in procurement, purchasing, and purchase order management. Proficiency in supplier performance management, contract and vendor management, and negotiation. Experience with supply chain processes, procurement analysis, strategic sourcing, and source selection. Working knowledge of import logistics and international sourcing practices. Experience with ERP systems and Microsoft Office, particularly Excel. Ability to read blueprints, bills of materials, and engineering documentation. Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills. Ability to collaborate effectively with engineering, operations, quality, finance, and external suppliers. Additional Skills & Qualifications Understanding of import and export processes, raw material pricing, and manufacturing costs. Experience in a hands-on manufacturing environment with exposure to production operations. APICS/CPIM certification preferred. Experience in cost analysis, value improvement, and supplier development initiatives. Ability to evaluate and qualify domestic and international suppliers. Willingness to travel periodically to supplier locations. Comfort working in a fast-paced environment focused on inventory, sourcing, cost savings, and production support. Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities. Interest in career growth within a stable and growing manufacturing organization. Work Environment This is an office-based role located within a manufacturing facility, with regular collaboration across production, engineering, quality, finance, and supplier teams. The position foll…