PRIMARY PURPOSE:

The Procurement & Sourcing Associate will order, purchase, and manage all materials related to production. This position will be responsible for maintaining the appropriate flow of purchased materials in support of all manufacturing operations.

WHY GRIP-TITE MANUFACTURING CO.?

Grip-Tite Manufacturing Co. offers a flexible environment, competitive benefits, and a culture that promotes growth, along with celebrating success. Here at Grip-Tite we realize that our greatest asset remains our employees, and we are committed to developing and promoting our talented individuals to support our future leadership needs.

Grip-Tite is 102 years young, and we are proud to say that all our products are made with American steel in the USA.

FOCUS:

• Buys materials in a timely manner to not interrupt production. Manages releases and follows up on deliveries in a timely manner; expedites as required. Maintains desired stocking levels (avoids stock outs and overstocks)
• Procures and negotiates contracts for assigned commodities.
• Identifies and realizes cost savings using constructive negotiation techniques and sourcing decisions. Executes duties focusing on protecting the Company’s interests. Holds vendors accountable for non-conformance issues.
• Establishes positive working relationships with suppliers and communicates production requirements. Monitors supplier performance through KPI’s and resolves any problems involving quality, delivery, and pricing.
• Streamlines purchasing processes with efficient use of MRP/ERP systems.
• Maintains material certificates and receipt records to ensure lot traceability of raw and purchased components.
• Interprets information, solves problems, and recommends approaches when standard procedures may not apply.
• Communicates and works effectively with other functional areas (production scheduling, engineering, sales, shipping, receiving). Advise when delays may affect production or sales plans.
• Develops ideas and strategies to improve operational efficiency, add value and aid business performance to works towards continuous improvement. Monitors purchase price variances and leads cost reduction efforts.
• Research alternate sources for goods and materials; ensures there are alternative vendors set-up for all purchase items for item contingencies. Advise on design or material changes with the potential for cost savings.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• 10 or more years purchasing experience, steel buying experience strongly preferred.
• Must possess proven experience in price negotiations, identifying opportunities for improved terms, contract options, and favorable release schedules.
• Effective communication and problem-solving skills
• Effective time management
• Possesses strong financial acumen
• Computer aptitude with MS Office product suite (specifically Excel)
• Proficient with MRP/ERP systems (Acumatica experience a plus)
• Highly motivated and results-focused
• Works with a sense of urgency and demonstrates responsiveness and promptness in serving internal and external customer needs.
• Participates in and / or leads team projects as assigned.

EDUCATION:

• Degree related to purchasing, planning or supply chain preferred. Applicable, progressive experience in procurement producing positive results will be considered in lieu of degree.
• CPP or CPIM certification desired

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Uphold the Grip-Tite Manufacturing Co. Core Values
• Team player
• Business professional
• Self-motivated with a strong work ethic
• Organized
• Must be able to handle multiple priorities and meet required deadlines.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be expected to work inside a manufacturing environment with regular exposure to changing temperatures (hot, cold, humid), moving mechanical parts, dust, fumes, chemicals, and loud noises. The noise level in the work environment can be loud; vibration levels are moderate.

COMPENSATION:

• Competitive compensation based on applicable experience.
• Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company match and 4 weeks of paid time off.
• Energetic and transparent work environment and great company culture. Driven, motivated, and talented support team.
• Ongoing training, and professional development opportunities.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT TESTING:

External hiring into this position is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

Grip-Tite Manufacturing is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to, among other things, race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with disability.