**_MAIN PURPOSE OF ROLE_**
Responsible for obtaining materials, components and equipment. Gathers quotations, examines bids, and makes awards. Determines material requirements from engineering and production schedules, and maintains inventory at planned levels. Plans, schedules, and monitors the movement of materials through the production cycle. Monitors cost, schedule, and scope of assigned subcontracts to assure the best quality at the best value.
**_ MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES_**
- Evaluates and select suppliers based upon assessment of their quality system and capabilities.
- Manages component supply and inventory levels for product line(s), planning and purchasing for material requirements and ensuring the flow of materials to the production floor.
- Understands and communicates component specifications to suppliers, including the ability to read drawings to determine dimensions, tolerances, and Incoming Quality Control (IQC) points.
- Develops and enhances relationships with strategic suppliers/partners. Serves as primary contact and fosters a positive and mutually beneficial relationship with suppliers.
- Ensures that Confidentiality Agreements and necessary contracts are established with suppliers.
- Manages the implementation of suppliers (including ensuring the completion of appropriate first articles and validations).
- Drives cost savings and quality improvement projects.
- Acts as a spokesperson to external suppliers.
- Cultivates a wide range of internal networks and begins to develop an external network of resources to facilitate the completion of tasks.
- Plans, organizes and prioritizes own daily work routine to meet established schedule.
- Exercises authority and judgment within defined limits to determine appropriate action.
**Requirements**:
- Bachelor's degree or advanced (70%) bachelor´s degree from a university program in Industrial Engineering, Business Administration or a related career
- 0-2 years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
- A good understanding of specified functional areas.
- Will perform this job in a quality system environment
- _ Fully Bilingual (English and Spanish)_
