Strategic Procurement Category Lead

Austal Usa, LLC; Mobile (AL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Austal USA is seeking a Procurement Category Lead to define plans and manage all purchasing activities for the assigned category. You will oversee a buying desk, ensure requisition clarity, and drive supplier performance from order through payment.

Travel may be required aboard ships and to supplier sites. Ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s in a related field with significant purchasing experience, strong negotiation and ERP/MRP knowledge, and the ability to lead a team in a dynamic manufacturing

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain or related field with 8+ years purchasing experience; leadership preferred.
• Familiarity with UCC, FAR/DFARS, ITAR, ISO/AS quality systems and ERP/MRP environments.
• Strong communication, analytical and negotiation skills; ability to manage supplier performance.

Responsibilities

• Define plans, processes, and tools for procurement across the assigned category.
• Lead supplier sourcing, market research, and complex financial analysis.
• Supervise Buyers and ensure PO compliance, on-time delivery, and issue resolution.
• Monitor supplier performance and manage cost savings and risk.

Skills

Purchasing experience

Leadership

ERP/MRP

Supplier assessments

Cost analysis

Communication

Reading blueprints

Negotiation

Project management

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Business, Supply Chain or related field

Tools

IFS ERP

SAP

Oracle / JD Edwards

Job description

Austal USA is seeking a Procurement Category Lead to define plans and manage all purchasing activities for the assigned category. You will oversee a buying desk, ensure requisition clarity, and drive supplier performance from order through payment.

Travel may be required aboard ships and to supplier sites. Ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s in a related field with significant purchasing experience, strong negotiation and ERP/MRP knowledge, and the ability to lead a team in a dynamic manufacturing