Sourcing Specialist I

Southern States LLC; Hampton (GA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern States LLC seeks a Sourcing Specialist I to manage vendor relationships and control costs effectively. This role involves collaborating closely with the Critical Supply Team and the Sourcing Manager to ensure timely delivery of parts and develop cost reduction strategies. Candidates should hold a Bachelor’s degree and have at least 5 years of experience in purchasing or related fields.

The ideal candidate will also possess strong leadership skills and the ability to build relationships with vendors. Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools is required, alongside a strategic mindset to navigate changing supply chain dynamics.

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ prior buying, purchasing, or related experience.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business documents.
• Excellent customer service skills.

Responsibilities

• Fortify existing vendor relationships and manage onboarding.
• Participate in negotiations for cost reductions.
• Assist in developing forecasting models for supply needs.

Skills

Strategic mindset

Leadership skills

Vendor management

Cost control

Strong communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft Access

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

Job description

Job Summary:

The Sourcing Specialist I primary functions are Cost Control, new Vendor development and management of existing critical or high-volume vendors. They work closely with the Critical Supply Team to find alternative parts and suppliers and support them in managing open orders. The Sourcing Specialist I works closely with the Sourcing Manager to initiate cost reductions ideas by developing alternative vendors, materials or minor changes to part designs which may reduce cost. A primary focus of the job is forecasting and analyzing open orders for rescheduling to ensure parts are delivered in time to fulfill production requirements.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Vendor management includes fortifying existing relationships, collaboration & innovation, risk assessment, cost reductions, and selection & onboarding of new vendors.
• Cost control includes RFPs as appropriate, and directly participating in negotiations as needed.
• Cost control also includes actively engaging with Division management and the Sourcing Manager with cost reduction ideas.
• Assist the Sourcing Manager in developing new buyers and interns, training them in systems and best practices.
• Assist in developing forecasting models to determine future supply needs and skills needed in the department, as well as performance metrics.
• Other duties as assigned.

Other Responsibilities & Requirements:

• This position requires a strategic mindset where anticipation of future needs and preparing for them is required.
• Ability to evaluate changes in the supply chain environment and commodities and their impact on SS and initiating steps to minimize the impact on SS is essential to success.
• Develop strong relationships with critical vendors by meeting with them regularly including site visits.
• Strong leadership skills are required.
• Teamwork and good relationships both inside and externally with vendors are required.
• Assist the Sourcing Manager as needed to keep the department running smoothly.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university; or a combination of education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree.
• Experience: 5+ years’ prior buying, purchasing, or related experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Access.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business documents.
• Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Access.
• Understanding of applicable computer systems and function-specific software such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from both internal and external customers.
• Good work record, including attendance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in heavy equipment manufacturing.
• Strong background in blueprint reading and interpretation.
• APICS or CPM certification.
• Experience with Microsoft Business Central.