Strategic Sourcing Specialist

APPLIED OPTOELECTRONICS INC; Sugar Land (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible health plans

401(k) matching

Generous PTO policy

Relocation package

Immigration sponsorships

Job summary

APPLIED OPTOELECTRONICS INC is looking for an entry-level Strategic Sourcing Specialist to support sourcing activities and supplier management in Sugar Land, Texas. This role involves working closely with internal teams and suppliers to optimize costs and enhance procurement practices.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain or related fields and have 2-5 years of relevant experience. Key responsibilities include supplier relationship management, analyzing pricing data, and supporting sourcing projects.

Benefits include flexible health plans, 401(k) matching, and generous PTO policies.

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, supply chain, manufacturing, logistics, or planning.
• Experience in categories: CAPEX equipment or Indirect procurement.
• Experience in supply chain operations such as demand or S&OP planning.

Responsibilities

• Support sourcing projects, supplier selection, and RFQ activities.
• Analyze pricing, spend, and supplier data to identify improvement opportunities.
• Monitor supplier delivery, quality, and service performance.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Experience in sourcing or procurement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, Operations, or related field

Tools

ERP systems

SAP

Ariba

Job description

AOI is committed to providing equal opportunity in all of our employment practices, including hiring, placement, promotion, training, transfer and compensation, to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, religion, sex, veteran status, age, disability, marital status, or any other category protected by State or U.S. Federal law. Moreover, we endeavor to treat our employees fairly.

The Strategic Sourcing Specialist (entry level role) supports sourcing activities, supplier management, and cost optimization initiatives across assigned procurement categories. The role works closely with internal stakeholders and suppliers to support business operations, supplier performance, and sourcing projects. Candidates may come from sourcing, procurement, supply chain operations, manufacturing, logistics, or planning backgrounds.

Job Duties

• Support sourcing projects, supplier selection, and RFQ activities
• Assist with supplier relationship management and performance tracking
• Analyze pricing, spend, and supplier data to identify improvement opportunities
• Support supplier onboarding and qualification processes
• Coordinate with Engineering, Operations, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams on sourcing requirements
• Support NPI programs and supplier readiness activities
• Assist with cost reduction, second-source development, and supply continuity initiatives
• Maintain sourcing records, contracts, and reporting tools
• Monitor supplier delivery, quality, and service performance

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, Operations, or related field
• 2-5 years of experience in sourcing, procurement, supply chain, manufacturing, logistics, planning, or related functions
• Experience in at least one of the following categories: CAPEX equipment, Indirect procurement
• Experience in supply chain operations such as: Demand or S&OP planning, Supply planning, Contract manufacturing or ODM management Ops, Logistics and customs operations
• Strong analytical and communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems

Preferred

• Experience in manufacturing, electronics, optical networking, semiconductor, or telecommunications industries
• SAP and/or Ariba experience

Additional Requirements

• Ability to travel as needed (up to 10-30%)

Location

This position will be on-site based in Sugar Land, Texas.

WHY AOI?

• Flexible and competitive health (medical, dental, vision) plans offer employees the right options to meet individual and family needs
• Employer matching on 401(k) deferrals
• Generous PTO policy, with unused PTO payout at the end of the year
• Relocation package available within the US
• Immigration sponsorships (Must be currently authorized to work in the US)