Strategic Sourcing Specialist - Equipment Procurement

Job Summary

The Strategic Sourcing Specialist– Mechanical Equipment Procurement reports to the Director of Strategic Procurement and plays a vital role in optimizing the sourcing and procurement of mechanical equipment within a global supply base. This position is best suited for candidates with a strong foundation in Mechanical or Industrial Engineering, combined with a keen understanding of procurement principles. The role requires analytical thinking, supplier engagement, and cost analysis to ensure cost-effective, reliable, and high-quality equipment sourcing. The ideal candidate will apply engineering-based problem-solving approaches to supplier negotiations, cost modeling, and risk mitigation strategies, enhancing the supply chain’s efficiency and resilience. By collaborating with internal teams and external suppliers, the Sourcing Analyst will contribute to building a best-in-class sourcing strategy that supports operational excellence and business-growth.

Job Details/Responsibilities

• Leverage mechanical or industrial engineering principles to support the development and execution of sourcing strategies for mechanical equipment procurement, ensuring supplier performance optimization, cost efficiency, and supply chain reliability.
• Utilize engineering-based analysis to assist in identifying, evaluating, and onboarding suppliers that meet stringent quality, cost, and delivery performance expectations.
• Apply technical cost modeling and design-to-cost methodologies in supplier negotiations, including reviewing cost structures, contract terms, and service level agreements.
• Conduct market research and supplier benchmarking using engineering-driven evaluation criteria, identifying cost-saving opportunities and optimizing procurement strategies.
• Assist in analyzing supplier proposals by assessing mechanical feasibility, manufacturability, and total cost of ownership (TCO) to drive procurement decision-making.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Finance, to align sourcing strategies with product design requirements and process capabilities.
• Utilize engineering and supply chain principles to assess supplier risk, ensuring robust mitigation strategies that address technical feasibility, production scalability, and long-term reliability.
• Monitor and track supplier performance using key performance indicators (KPIs), with a focus on metrics such as process capability indices, defect rates, and tolerance compliance.
• Apply fundamental engineering principles to support continuous improvement initiatives, optimizing supplier processes and driving operational efficiencies. Support the execution of Requests for Quotations (RFQs), bid evaluations, and supplier selection processes.
• Maintain procurement data, reporting tools, and supplier performance scorecards to support decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, quality, and corporate procurement policies in sourcing activities.
• Assist in the implementation of procurement process improvements and digital sourcing tools.
• Work closely with Accounts Payable to ensure supplier payments and to resolve invoice discrepancies.
• Travel (Minimal): Participate in supplier visits or meetings as needed (5-10% travel)

Job Responsibilities (continued)

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA)

• Basic Procurement Knowledge: Understanding of sourcing methodologies, supplier evaluation techniques, and procurement best practices.
• Mechanical Equipment & Manufacturing Awareness: Familiarity with mechanical equipment, production processes, and supplier capabilities in an industrial or manufacturing setting.
• Cost Analysis & Supplier Negotiation Exposure: Some experience supporting cost analysis, price benchmarking, or supplier discussions.
• Data Interpretation & Problem-Solving: Ability to collect and interpret procurement data, identify trends, and assist in decision-making.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Exposure to working with suppliers, assisting in resolving issues, and supporting supplier development.
• Contract & Compliance Basics: Awareness of purchase agreements, terms and conditions, and compliance requirements within regulated industries.
• ERP & Procurement Tools Familiarity: Hands-on involvement or familiarity with procurement systems (SAP, Oracle, or equivalent), Excel-based data analysis, and supplier management platforms.
• Cross-Functional Communication: Ability to collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Finance teams.
• Adaptability & Continuous Learning: Willingness to develop sourcing expertise, improve negotiation skills, and stay updated on industry best practices.
• Growth Potential: Eagerness to learn, develop professionally, and contribute to team goals. Certifications (e.g., CPSM, CSCP) or coursework in procurement or supply chain management are advantageous but not required.
• Understanding of regulated industries (medical devices, aerospace, automotive, or industrial manufacturing) is a plus, particularly in relation to supplier qualifications, compliance, and quality management systems.
   

Qualifications/ Background Experiences

• 1-3 years of involvement in procurement, supply chain, supplier management, or manufacturing operations.
• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business Administration, Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or equivalent), or a related field.
• Exposure to mechanical equipment sourcing, supplier discussions, or category management is preferred.
• Some familiarity with should-cost analysis, lean procurement methodologies, and supplier development initiatives.
• Participation in contract reviews, supplier due diligence, or risk assessment activities. 
• Certifications (Optional): Coursework or certifications in procurement, supply chain management, manufacturing or engineering are advantageous.
• Software Proficiency: Basic familiarity with MS tools, ERP tools, procurement software and tools are beneficial.