What are the responsibilities and job description for the Procurement Engineer position at IKA – Laboratory, Analytical and Process Technology?
The Procurement Engineer is responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and procuring technical materials, components, and equipment required to support manufacturing operations. This role serves as the liaison between Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and suppliers to ensure purchased prod-cuts meet technical specifications, quality standards, cost objectives, and delivery requirements. The ideal candidate combines engineering knowledge with strategic sourcing and supplier management experience to drive operational efficiency and continuous improvement.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
- Source and procure mechanical, electrical, and technical components in support of manufacturing and engineering projects.
- Review engineering drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), specifications, and technical documentation to identify procurement requirements.
- Identify, qualify, and develop new suppliers while maintaining strong relationships with existing vendors.
- Solicit quotations, evaluate supplier proposals, negotiate pricing, lead times, payment terms, and contracts.
- Collaborate with Engineering to ensure purchased materials meet design specifications and performance requirements.
- Partner with Quality to resolve supplier quality issues and implement corrective actions.
- Monitor supplier performance including quality, delivery, responsiveness, and cost competitiveness.
- Analyze market trends, material costs, and supplier capabilities to recommend sourcing strategies.
- Support new product development by sourcing components and evaluating manufacturability.
- Maintain accurate purchasing records, supplier documentation, and procurement data within the ERP system.
- Work closely with Production Planning to ensure materials are available to support manufacturing schedules.
- Manage engineering change orders (ECOs) and ensure procurement activities align with design revisions.
- Drive cost reduction initiatives through supplier negotiations, value engineering, and alternative sourcing opportunities.
- Participate in continuous improvement projects related to procurement processes, inventory optimization, and supplier performance.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, purchasing procedures, and applicable regulations.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Supply Chain Management, or a related technical field required.
- 3-7 years of procurement, sourcing, purchasing, or supply chain experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Experience in interpreting engineering drawings and technical specifications.
- Experience working with ERP/MRP systems.
- Supplier management and contract negotiation experience preferred.
- Experience supporting new product development is a plus.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and engineering principles.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and BOMs.
- Knowledge of procurement best practices and strategic sourcing methodologies.
- Excellent negotiation and supplier relationship management skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems.
- Excellent organizational and project management skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Detail-oriented with strong follow-through.