This position is responsible for end-to-end procurement of New Product Introduction (NPI) programs from concept and design through prototype pilot qualification and release to manufacturing. The Senior NPI Buyer is a driving force in shaping the future of NPI purchasingowning material strategy building digital ways of working and turning ambiguity into measurable repeatable processes. The role blends strategic sourcing influence program execution and automation leadership to ensure Cognex can build faster smarter and more reliably.
Own procurement for assigned NPI projects from early design through qualification and handover to mass production.
Engage early in product development to influence sourcing decisionsleveragingcostand lead-time analysis tools.
Convert costed BOMs into actionable purchasing plans (PBOM) for long-lead components and risk buys.
Executepurchasingstrategies for prototype and pilot builds including inventory and non-inventory POs samples and tooling.
Manage material planning and forecasting to ensuretimelysupply for engineering buildsqualificationphasesand product launch.
Coordinate with Contract Manufacturers (CMs) to manage build readiness shortage reports and delivery commitments.
Implement automation tools (e.g. Power Automate) to streamline PO creation request tracking and reporting.
Develop andmaintainClean-to-Build dashboards for visibility of material readiness across all build phases.
Collaborate cross-functionallywith Engineering Operations and Sourcing to resolve supply issues and drive continuous improvement.
Capture and document lessons learned to build a knowledge repository of common issues solutions and process improvements.
Support supplier engagement for samples tooling and quick-turn solutions; contribute to cost analysis for new components.
Provide input on CM performance for Quarterly Business Reviews and support sourcing strategies for new products.
Requirements
Strong understanding of procurement and supply chain principles for NPI environments.
Ability to interpret and analyze complex BOMs ECOs and technical documentation.
Skilled in material planning forecasting and vendor/CM management.
Solution-driven mindset with ability tooperatein ambiguity and create structure from unstructured processes.
Proficiencyin automation tools (Power Automate dashboards) and ERP systems (SAP).
Strong analytical skills for cost modeling and lead-time risk assessment.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills for cross-functional alignment.
Ability to drive continuous improvement and embed new ways of working.
Preferred Background
Experience in NPI purchasing or technical procurement (5 years).
Exposure to sourcing engineering technical project management or engineering disciplines.
Proventrack recordin implementing process improvements and automation.
Comfortable managing multiple projects in a fast-paced dynamic environment.
Minimum Education and Work Experience
Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Business Engineering or related field.
3 years in procurement supply chain or NPI purchasing roles.
Required Experience:
Senior IC
Cognex machine vision and barcode scanning solutions deliver unparalleled precision in your manufacturing and warehouse operations. Embrace quality and efficiency today.