Proto Buyer

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:
-Bachelors 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.