Technical Procurement Specialist / Buyer

Job Overview
As a Technical Procurement Specialist in Houston, TX, you'll be responsible for sourcing and purchasing technical goods and services for the organization. You'll work with specified suppliers to meet demand requirements and quality specifications. This role requires expertise in technical specifications and supplier evaluation to maintain an efficient supply chain and support successful customer fulfillment.

Key Responsibilities
Technical Procurement
• Develop and maintain comprehensive understanding of technical specifications for products and services
• Work closely with engineering teams to interpret technical drawings, requirements, and standards
• Review purchase requisitions from Operations and Manufacturing branches
• Source requested parts/services to required specifications following company guidelines
• Utilize competitive bidding to target the best quality, delivery, and total cost of ownership

Purchase Order Management
• Create purchase orders according to guidelines and communicate with branches and suppliers
• Monitor delivery dates and manage any necessary changes to orders
• Act as liaison between suppliers and internal departments to resolve payment issues
• Facilitate supplier contract negotiations as required

Supplier Relationship Management
• Participate in supplier review processes and develop relationships with key strategic suppliers
• Report supplier non-conformances and follow up until resolved
• Leverage supplier relationships to improve on-time delivery, product development, and overall performance

Communication & Reporting
• Maintain effective communications with all key stakeholders
• Prepare and communicate shortage and backlog reports
• Provide visibility of potential supply chain interruptions to internal customers

Qualifications
Required
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university or equivalent experience
• 6+ years of experience in planning, purchasing, and material optimization
• Experience in procurement, supply chain, planning, or material management
• Intermediate knowledge of Material Resource Planning and Demand Resource Planning
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills
• Proficient in MS Office suite including advanced Excel skills

Preferred
• Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) or APICS Certification
Additional Information
• Travel requirement: Up to 10%

#LI-KP1