Procurement Specialist
6 days ago
Los Angeles
Job DescriptionOverview Are you a highly motivated and detail-oriented Procurement Specialist seeking a dynamic opportunity within a thriving manufacturing environment? We are actively searching for a talented individual to join our team in Northridge, CA, in a temp-to-perm capacity. This is an exceptional chance to leverage your expertise in supply chain management, vendor relations, and strategic sourcing to significantly impact our operational efficiency and bottom line. You'll be instrumental in optimizing our procurement processes, driving cost savings, and ensuring the seamless flow of materials essential to our production. This role offers a stimulating work environment where innovation is encouraged, and your contributions are directly visible. Join a collaborative and forward-thinking team dedicated to excellence and continuous improvement. We foster a culture that values expertise, problem-solving, and professional growth. As a Procurement Specialist, you will be empowered to take ownership of key initiatives, develop strong supplier partnerships, and contribute to our strategic objectives. We believe in investing in our people, providing ample opportunities for skill development, and offering clear pathways for career advancement within our organization. This position is not just a job; it's a stepping stone to a rewarding career where your skills are recognized and your potential is nurtured. This opportunity is perfect for a driven professional eager to grow their career in manufacturing procurement. You'll gain invaluable experience in a fast-paced setting, working with cutting-edge technologies and contributing to the creation of high-quality products. If you are passionate about optimizing supply chains, excel at negotiation, and thrive in an environment that challenges you to innovate, we invite you to explore this exciting role. Duties & Responsibilities • Develop and execute strategic sourcing initiatives to identify, evaluate, and select suppliers for raw materials, components, and services, ensuring best value and quality., • Manage the end-to-end procurement process, from requisition to purchase order (PO) generation and delivery, utilizing ERP systems like SAP., • Conduct complex contract negotiations with vendors to secure favorable terms, pricing, and service level agreements (SLAs), minimizing risk and maximizing cost savings., • Monitor and manage supplier performance, conduct regular business reviews, and implement corrective actions as needed to maintain high standards., • Perform comprehensive cost analysis and market research to identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement., • Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, production, and quality teams to understand material requirements and ensure alignment with production schedules., • Implement and maintain robust inventory control strategies to optimize stock levels, reduce carrying costs, and prevent stockouts., • Ensure all procurement activities adhere to internal policies, industry regulations, and compliance standards., • Resolve discrepancies related to invoices, delivery, and quality with suppliers promptly and efficiently., • Contribute to the continuous improvement of procurement processes and the adoption of digital procurement tools., • Participate in the development and implementation of sustainable sourcing practices., • Health Insurance: Robust medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family., • Retirement Planning: 401(k) retirement plan with competitive company matching contributions to help you build your financial future., • Paid Time Off: Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays to ensure work-life balance., • Performance Bonuses: Opportunities for performance-based bonuses acknowledging your contributions and achievements., • Professional Development: Access to training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement to support continuous learning and career advancement., • Work-Life Balance: Initiatives and flexible options designed to promote a healthy integration of work and personal life., • Employee Assistance Program: Confidential resources for personal and professional support., • Life and Disability Insurance: Company-provided coverage for peace of mind., • Employee Discount Programs: Access to various discounts on products and services., • Modern Work Environment: State-of-the-art facilities and tools to empower your success. Qualifications & Requirements, • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Operations Management, or a closely related field., • A minimum of 2-5 years of progressive experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain roles within a manufacturing environment., • Demonstrated proficiency in utilizing ERP systems, specifically SAP, for procurement functions., • Proven expertise in contract negotiation, supplier relationship management, and strategic sourcing., • Strong analytical skills with the ability to perform cost analysis, market research, and interpret complex data., • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, capable of effectively engaging with diverse stakeholders., • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including advanced Excel skills for data analysis and reporting., • Comprehensive understanding of manufacturing supply chain principles and processes., • Ability to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation. Preferred Qualifications, • Master's degree in Supply Chain Management or Business Administration., • Certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), or NIGP Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP)., • Experience with advanced procurement software and e-procurement platforms., • Knowledge of global sourcing strategies and international trade regulations., • Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies. Skills Technical Skills, • Supply Chain Management, • Vendor Management, • Contract Negotiation, • Purchase Order Management, • ERP Systems (e.g., SAP), • Inventory Control, • Cost Analysis, • Supplier Evaluation, • Procurement Software, • Data Analysis & Reporting Soft Skills, • Strategic Thinking, • Problem-Solving, • Communication (Verbal & Written), • Collaboration & Teamwork, • Adaptability, • Preferred Certifications:, • Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM): Highly valued, indicating mastery of supply management best practices., • Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM): Demonstrates expertise in advanced purchasing and supply chain topics., • Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP): Validates a broad understanding of supply chain operations from end-to-end., • NIGP Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP): Particularly beneficial for those with experience or interest in public sector procurement, but also recognized for general procurement rigor. These certifications showcase a candidate's dedication, advanced knowledge, and adherence to industry standards, positively impacting their evaluation during the selection process and positioning them for higher responsibility. Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate for this Procurement Specialist position is a proactive and results-driven individual who thrives in a fast-paced, manufacturing-centric environment. They possess a keen eye for detail, a strategic mindset for cost optimization, and exceptional interpersonal skills to build and maintain strong vendor relationships. This person is a skilled negotiator, comfortable analyzing complex data to make informed decisions, and passionate about driving efficiency throughout the supply chain. They are a collaborative team player, eager to contribute to process improvements and embrace new technologies in procurement. A commitment to continuous learning and a desire to grow within a dynamic industry are key traits for success in this role, someone who is ready to make a tangible impact from day one. About the Role This Procurement Specialist position is a full-time, temp-to-perm opportunity based at our facility in Northridge, CA. This is an on-site role, fostering close collaboration with our manufacturing and operations teams. While no remote work options are available for this specific position, the selected candidate will be provided with a dedicated workspace, state-of-the-art computer equipment, and access to all necessary procurement software and tools. You will report directly to the Procurement Manager and work closely with a supportive team of experienced professionals, offering a structured environment for learning and development. Minimal travel may be required for supplier visits or industry conferences, estimated at less than 5%. This role offers a clear growth trajectory into more senior procurement or supply chain management positions within the company for high-performing individuals. How to Apply We invite qualified candidates to submit their application and resume through our online portal. Please include your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, highlighting your achievements in procurement, and explaining why you are an excellent fit for this role within a manufacturing setting. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and promising candidates will be contacted for an initial interview. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our organization. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. If you require an accommodation during the application process, please contact the hiring team. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives. Veterans, individuals with disabilities, and members of underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.