What are the responsibilities and job description for the 2026 Entry Level: Procurement Associate (Troy, MI) position at Kautex?
2026 Entry Level: Procurement Associate (Troy, MI)
Description
Kautex is a global company with over 30 plants in 13 countries. As a leading Tier One automotive supplier, we are a pioneer in the design and manufacturing of plastic fuel systems and beyond. From battery enclosures for use in hybrid and full battery electric vehicle applications to autonomous cleaning systems, we are advancing solutions for the era of new mobility. Our portfolio also covers high-quality industrial packaging and cast camshafts. Embracing the transformative venture, Kautex is part of a network of global businesses, offering some of the most advanced technologies and services the world has ever seen.
We foster career growth, drive groundbreaking talent programs, and champion equal opportunities and sustainability in our business practices and products. By working together as one team and supporting one another, amazing things happen. We push the boundaries of what's possible, soar to new heights and reach for the extraordinary, being recognized by prestigious awards such as Fair Company, Great place to work (Silao), MINT minded company, or Ecovadis Platinum. We can\`t wait getting to know you and share more about our values and local benefits.
What awaits you
- Be responsible for the cost analysis and cost understanding of main bought-in products
- Responsible for the selection of the suppliers for prototypes and production parts - aligned with ISC strategy and Program team requirements for the headquarter
- Initiates the RFQ's and negotiates and executes all contracts on the specific programs
- Ensure the understanding of component pricing within the organization. Responsible for the program from Quotation through lifecycle of that program
- Responsible to utilize the tools to assist in should cost analysis for the components related to the specific program. Further development of "should cost" calculation tools
- Develop cost reduction ideas through close collaboration with different functions within the organization
- Be responsible for program financial performance. Coordinates the tracking and analyses cost changes on the respective programs. Negotiates with supplier for cost increase request and provides the support to sales team to recover it from customer
- Timely create and archive all the legal documents. Work with supplier and legal counsel for any contract dispute
- Generate total landed costs improvements through initialization of workshops at suppliers and Kautex plants
- Identify and execute cost optimizations within the commodities
- Understand the tooling cost for bought-in components
- Execute tooling audits and evaluate deviation between invoiced and KT estimated cost
Qualifications
What you'll need to succeed:
- Bachelor of Purchasing, Business Administration, Materials Sciences, Supply Chain, Logistics
- First commercial working experience gained in internships is required
- Business Experience in the Automotive Industry will be preferred
- Knowledge in Value-, Design- and Price Analysis
- Ideally Software Skills in Excel, ERP Systems - SAP, E-Matrix; Sharepoint, etc
- English language skills are required
- Learning on the Fly
- Compassion
- Dealing with Ambiguity
- Drive for Results
- Organization
Recruiting Timeline: Applications for this position will be accepted through October 31, 2025. The application window may be shortened or extended based on candidate flow and business needs. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible, and review the location for this role to ensure it aligns to your location preferences as all roles are on site at a Textron business unit.
EEO Statement
Textron is committed to providing Equal Opportunity in Employment, to all applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin, military status, veteran status, disability, sex (including pregnancy and sexual orientation), genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.
Recruiting Company: Kautex
Primary Location: US-Michigan-Troy
Job Function: Supply Chain
Schedule: Full-time
Job Level: Individual Contributor
Job Type: Entry Job
Shift: First Shift
Job Posting: 09/01/2025, 12:00:00 AM
Job Number: 333423
