The Materials Sourcing Specialist will be responsible for procuring high-quality plastic materials used in manufacturing processes. This position involves working closely with suppliers and scrap producers, evaluating material options, ensuring cost-effective purchasing, and maintaining an optimal inventory level to meet production requirements. This role requires an understanding of the recycled plastic materials market, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to manage multiple suppliers and purchase orders simultaneously.
Key Responsibilities:
- Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers for plastics raw materials such as resins, waste feedstocks, additives, and compounds.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with current and potential suppliers to ensure quality, cost efficiency, and delivery schedules.
- Conduct supplier audits and performance reviews to ensure compliance with quality and delivery standards.
- Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions with suppliers to secure the best possible deals.
- Place purchase orders, ensuring accurate documentation, compliance with company policies, and timely delivery of materials.
- Monitor inventory levels and forecast material needed to avoid production delays.
- Manage material lead times and keep track of delivery schedules to meet production timelines.
- Assist in developing and managing the material procurement budget to ensure cost control and savings.
- Analyze market trends, price fluctuations, and alternative suppliers to find cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality.
- Track and report on material costs, identifying areas for potential cost reduction.
- Maintain awareness of new product development projects and materials required to support new product Statement of Requirements (fit, form, function).
- Work with product development and material science teams to create specifications for NPI materials and associated mechanical properties.
- Ensure that materials purchased meet the company's quality standards and specifications.
- Collaborate with engineering and production teams to understand material requirements and resolve any supply chain challenges.
- Maintain accurate records of purchase orders, supplier agreements, and inventory levels.
- Provide regular reports on material usage, stock levels, supplier performance, and budget status to management.
Education and/or Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Materials Science, Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management, preferably within the plastics or manufacturing industries.
- Certifications (Optional): Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or other relevant certifications in procurement or supply chain management are a plus.
- Experience in sourcing and purchasing plastic materials such as thermoplastics, thermosets, or elastomers is highly desirable.
- Proven track record of successfully negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships.
- Experience with sustainability initiatives and sourcing eco-friendly materials is highly preferred.
- In-depth understanding of the plastics materials market, including industry trends and pricing factors.
Seniority Level:
Mid-Senior level
Employment Type:
Full-time
Job Function:
Research, Manufacturing, and Purchasing
Industries:
Retail Recyclable Materials & Used Merchandise, Plastics and Rubber Product Manufacturing, and Plastics Manufacturing