Job description
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Serve as the primary procurement contact for NPDI projects, ensuring materials readiness for new product launches and engineering change implementations
- Collect and analyze data, prepare reports, and support process improvements related to materials transformation initiatives
- Source, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers to support NPDI project requirements
- Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions with suppliers to achieve cost targets for new components and assemblies
- Create, update, and track purchase orders to ensure timely delivery of prototype and production materials
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, Operations, and Program Management teams to align procurement timelines with project milestones
- Conduct supplier research and market analysis to identify optimal sourcing strategies for new product components
- Monitor and follow up on order statuses with suppliers, addressing any discrepancies or delays
- Support APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) activities and supplier qualification processes
- Drive cost reduction initiatives during the product development phase to meet target costs
- Manage Bill of Materials (BOM) procurement activities from prototype through production launch
- Ensure compliance with Vertiv's procurement policies, procedures, and ethical standards
- Maintain accurate records in ERP systems (Oracle) for all NPDI-related purchasing activities
- Participate in design reviews and provide procurement input on component availability, lead times, and cost implications
- Support production transfer activities, including supplier transitions and logistics coordination
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, or related field
- 3–5 years of experience in procurement/buying, preferably in a manufacturing environment
- Experience supporting new product introduction (NPI/NPDI) processes
- Proficiency in ERP systems (Oracle preferred)
- Bilingual: English and Spanish (written and verbal)
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
- Knowledge of APQP, PPAP, and supplier qualification processes
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with should-cost modeling and total cost of ownership analysis
- Familiarity with engineering drawings and technical specifications
- Project management experience or certification
- Experience with production transfers and supplier transitions
COMPETENCIES
- Analytical Thinking – Ability to analyze complex data and make informed sourcing decisions
- Cross-Functional Collaboration – Effective communication across Engineering, Quality, and Operations teams
- Results Orientation – Drives projects to completion within timeline and budget constraints
- Supplier Relationship Management – Builds and maintains strong supplier partnerships
- Adaptability – Thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities
- Continuous Improvement – Proactively identifies opportunities to improve processes and reduce costs
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Office/manufacturing environment at the Mexicali, Baja California facility
- Occasional travel to supplier sites (domestic and international) – up to 15%
- Standard work schedule with flexibility required to support project deadlines