Proto Buyer

Job Summary: The Prototype Buyer is a critical member of our New Product Introduction (NPI) and Engineering teams. This role is responsible for the end-to-end procurement of prototype components, tooling, and services required for research, development, and validation testing. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with deep experience in strategic sourcing, particularly within a technical manufacturing environment and with a strong focus on the Chinese supply base. You will act as the vital link between our engineers and the global supply market, ensuring the timely, cost-effective, and quality-driven acquisition of complex parts. Job Responsibilities: • Sourcing & Procurement:  Manage the entire prototype purchasing lifecycle: from requisition to delivery, including RFQ, supplier selection, negotiation, purchase order placement, and expediting.  Source and qualify new suppliers for prototype and low-volume production parts, with an emphasis on identifying capable partners in China, as well as the US, Mexico, Europe, Japan, and Southeast Asia.  Procure a wide variety of components, including raw materials, machined parts, castings, electronics, and complex assemblies specific to e-powertrain, fuel cells, inverters, and motors et al.  Source and manage suppliers for specialized services such as rapid prototyping (3D printing, CNC machining). • Supplier Relationship & Quality Management:  Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with key proto suppliers and GBE buyers serving as the primary point of contact.  Conduct supplier assessments (virtual or on-site as needed) to evaluate technical capability, quality systems, and capacity for prototype work.  Work closely with Engineering and Quality teams to resolve APQP technical issues, clarify specifications, and ensure supplier comprehension of unique prototype requirements.  Drive quick resolution of any quality non-conformances (e.g., deviations, non-standard parts) to avoid project delays. • Cost, Timing, & Data Management:  Negotiate favorable pricing, payment terms, and lead times for prototype orders, understanding the cost drivers of low-volume, high-complexity parts.  Aggressively track and expedite orders to meet critical project milestones and testing schedules. Proactively communicate risks and delays to the project team.  Maintain accurate data within the ERP/MRP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and manage the procurement documentation pack for each prototype project.  Provide regular updates on procurement status, costs, and supplier performance to cross-functional teams and management. • Cross-Functional Collaboration:  Partner directly with Proto Planner, Design Engineers, R&D teams and Project Managers to understand technical requirements and provide sourcing input during the design phase.  Collaborate with the GBE Procurement team to ensure a smooth transition from prototype sourcing to production sourcing. Qualifications and Experience:  Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.  2+ years of experience in a procurement, buying, or strategic sourcing role, with a significant focus on prototype or low-volume procurement in a manufacturing environment.  Proven experience and success in sourcing from Chinese suppliers. Must be comfortable with cross-cultural business practices, time zones, and language barriers. (Mandarin language skills are a significant plus).  Demonstrated experience with mechanical, electro-mechanical, or electronic components.  Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.  Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a sense of urgency to meet tight deadlines.  Proficient with MS Office Suite and ERP/MRP systems. Preferred:  Experience in the automotive, aerospace, or energy sectors.  Technical knowledge of one or more of: turbo machinery, fuel cell systems, power electronics (inverters), or electric motors.  Experience with international logistics, Incoterms, and import/export processes.  Familiarity with quality processes like APQP, PPAP, and DFM/DFA as they relate to prototyping. Competencies:  Results-Driven & Proactive: Thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes initiative to remove obstacles.  Technical Aptitude: Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.  Supplier Influencer: Ability to build rapport and motivate suppliers to prioritize our needs.  Excellent Communicator: Clear and concise in both written and verbal communication across all levels of the organization and with external partners.  Organized & Detail-Oriented: Manages multiple projects simultaneously without compromising accuracy.