acquisition of complex parts.
Job Responsibilities:
• Sourcing & Procurement:
-Manage the entire prototype purchasing lifecycle: from requisition to delivery, including RFQ, supplier selection, negotiation, purchase order placement, and expediting.
-Source and qualify new suppliers for prototype and low-volume production parts, with an emphasis on identifying capable partners in China, as well as the US, Mexico, Europe, Japan, and Southeast Asia.
-Procure a wide variety of components, including raw materials, machined parts, castings, electronics, and complex assemblies specific to e-powertrain, fuel cells, inverters, and motors et al.
-Source and manage suppliers for specialized services such as rapid prototyping (3D printing, CNC machining).
•Supplier Relationship & Quality Management:
-Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with key proto suppliers and GBE buyers serving as the primary point of contact.
-Conduct supplier assessments (virtual or on-site as needed) to evaluate technical capability, quality systems, and capacity for prototype work.
-Work closely with Engineering and Quality teams to resolve APQP technical issues, clarify specifications, and ensure supplier comprehension of unique prototype requirements.
-Drive quick resolution of any quality non-conformances (e.g., deviations, non-standard parts) to avoid project delays.
•Cost, Timing, & Data Management:
-Negotiate favorable pricing, payment terms, and lead times for prototype orders, understanding the cost drivers of low-volume, high-complexity parts.
-Aggressively track and expedite orders to meet critical project milestones and testing schedules. Proactively communicate risks and delays to the project team.
-Maintain accurate data within the ERP/MRP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and manage the procurement documentation pack for each prototype project.
-Provide regular updates on procurement status, costs, and supplier performance to cross-functional teams and management.
•Cross-Functional Collaboration:
-Partner directly with Proto Planner, Design Engineers, R&D teams and Project Managers to understand technical requirements and provide sourcing input during the design phase.
-Collaborate with the GBE Procurement team to ensure a smooth transition from prototype sourcing to production sourcing.
Qualifications and Experience:
-Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
-2+ years of experience in a procurement, buying, or strategic sourcing role, with a significant focus on prototype or low-volume procurement in a manufacturing environment.
-Proven experience and success in sourcing from Chinese suppliers. Must be comfortable with cross-cultural business practices, time zones, and language barriers. (Mandarin language skills are a significant plus).
-Demonstrated experience with mechanical, electro-mechanical, or electronic components.
-Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
-Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a sense of urgency to meet tight deadlines.
-Proficient with MS Office Suite and ERP/MRP systems.
Preferred:
-Experience in the automotive, aerospace, or energy sectors.
-Technical knowledge of one or more of: turbo machinery, fuel cell systems, power electronics (inverters), or electric motors.
-Experience with international logistics, Incoterms, and import/export processes.
-Familiarity with quality processes like APQP, PPAP, and DFM/DFA as they relate to prototyping.