Procurement Specialist I

Socket.dev; California (MO); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Socket.dev is seeking a Procurement Specialist I to source and purchase materials for flexible packaging production. You will evaluate vendors, negotiate terms, and ensure quality and cost efficiency across print operations.

The role requires 2+ years in procurement within manufacturing or printing environments, with strong prepress understanding and ERP/Microsoft Office proficiency. On-site position with standard office hours, focusing on supplier collaboration and process optimization.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 2+ years of procurement experience, ideally in printing, packaging, or manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of prepress processes and print production.
• Proven negotiation skills and vendor management experience.
• Excellent attention to detail, analytical abilities, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with procurement systems, inventory tools, project management tools, ERP, and Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Procure materials, equipment, and services for production.
• Develop relationships with print vendors and prepress service providers.
• Collaborate with packaging to understand job technical requirements and supplier needs.
• Review and report vendor performance, lead times, compliance, and service reliability.
• Maintain accurate purchase orders, quotes, vendor agreements, and documentation.

Skills

Printing knowledge

Prepress workflows

Vendor management

Negotiation

Attention to detail

Analytical abilities

Organizational skills

Procurement systems

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate or bachelor’s degree

Tools

ERP

Microsoft Office

Job description

Position Summary

The Procurement Specialist I for flexible packaging is responsible for sourcing, evaluating, negotiating, and purchasing materials, equipment, and services required for production. This role ensures optimal vendor performance, cost efficiency, and consistent quality across all print-related operations. The ideal candidate has strong knowledge of printing processes, substrates, and prepress workflows, along with solid supply chain and procurement skills.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement and Vendor Management

• Purchase needed materials to be used based on customer’s order.
• Develop established relationships with print vendors, prepress service providers, and specialty production partners.
• Collaborate with flexible packaging to understand technical requirements for each job.
• Assist in reviewing and reporting vendor performance, lead times, compliance, and service reliability.
• Troubleshoot material-related or vendor-related production issues as they arise.

Cost Control and Inventory

• Support in escalating opportunities for cost reduction or process optimization within the purchasing process.
• Track and report procurement metrics such as pricing changes, savings, vendor performance, and usage trends.

Order Management and Documentation

• Ensure accuracy of purchase orders, quotes, and vendor agreements.
• Ensure accurate documentation, approvals, and compliance with internal procurement policies.
• Maintain detailed records of material specifications, vendor quotes, and order histories on a daily basis.
• Communicate timely delivery of POs from vendors and communicate proactively with internal teams about timelines, changes, or risks.
• Filing completed orders that have been verified with vendors on a weekly basis.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 2+ years of procurement experience, ideally in printing, packaging, or manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of prepress processes and print production.
• Proven negotiation skills and vendor management experience.
• Excellent attention to detail, analytical abilities, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with procurement systems, inventory tools, project management tools, ERP, and Microsoft Office.

Preferred

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in related field.
• Knowledge of sustainable print materials and environmentally preferred substrates.
• Background in supply chain management or print manufacturing operations.

Work Environment/Physical Requirements

This position operates primarily in a professional office environment on-site setting. The role involves routine use of standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and multifunction printers. The Procurement Specialist collaborates frequently with internal teams, suppliers, and vendors via email, phone, and virtual meeting platforms.

Work is generally performed in a sedentary setting, requiring prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer. The individual must be able to regularly use hands and fingers to type, operate office equipment, and manage electronic procurement systems. Occasional standing, walking, and light lifting (up to 15–20 pounds) may be required, such as when handling documents, supplies, or office materials.

The role may involve moderate deadline-driven pressure, requiring the ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain attention to detail, and meet procurement timelines. Limited travel may be required for supplier visits, site inspections, or industry events, depending on the organization’s needs.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
40 hours a week