Strategic Procurement Buyer

KUKA; Alba (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

KUKA is seeking a procurement professional to efficiently purchase materials and services for the NAM Robotics region, manage supplier performance, and ensure cost control while supporting manufacturing operations and quality standards.

You will review quotes, negotiate terms, maintain ERP data, and collaborate across Operations, Finance, Quality and Logistics. Experience with SAP Ariba and SAP ERP is essential, with a focus on compliance and continuous process improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in operations or related field, or 4 years' experience.
• Experience with SAP Ariba, SAP ERP (S‑4HANA) and SharePoint required.
• Strong purchasing, supplier management, and documentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage internal purchase requisitions for NAM region for Robotics.
• Purchase direct and indirect materials & services per requirements.
• Obtain and evaluate supplier quotations; negotiate pricing and lead times.
• Track cost savings, sourcing decisions, and audit documents.
• Review invoices and support Accounts Payable as needed.
• Maintain vendor records, pricing agreements, and audit documentation.
• Monitor purchase orders and follow up with vendors.
• Maintain supplier and purchasing data in ERP systems.
• Coordinate supplier onboarding and qualification per procedures.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Finance, Quality, Logistics.
• Act as Procurement Key User for SAP Ariba at the location.
• Drive ARIBA adoption, correct usage, and policy compliance.
• Troubleshoot process and system issues; provide first-level ARIBA support.
• Maintain local vendor catalogs and content where applicable.
• Support testing, rollouts, enhancements, and continuous ARIBA improvements.
• Deliver local procurement communication and training initiatives.
• Manage supplier relationships and performance monitoring.
• Participate in Quality meetings regarding process flow and efficiency.
• Adhere to safety regulations and quality systems; drive continual improvement.

Skills

Negotiation

Cost control

Supplier management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor degree in operations or related field

Tools

SAP Ariba

SAP ERP (S‑4HANA)

SharePoint

Job description

KUKA is seeking a procurement professional to efficiently purchase materials and services for the NAM Robotics region, manage supplier performance, and ensure cost control while supporting manufacturing operations and quality standards.

You will review quotes, negotiate terms, maintain ERP data, and collaborate across Operations, Finance, Quality and Logistics. Experience with SAP Ariba and SAP ERP is essential, with a focus on compliance and continuous process improvement.