What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing Specialist position at Spinal Elements?
About Spinal Elements
Spinal Elements is a Carlsbad, California-based medical device company focused on the design, development, and commercialization of a comprehensive portfolio of systems, products, and technologies for spine surgery procedures. A leading designer, developer, manufacturer, and marketer of innovative medical devices used in spinal surgical procedures, Spinal Elements combines leading medical device technologies, biologics, and instrumentation to create positive surgical outcomes that exceed surgeon and patient expectations. Spinal Elements has built a reputation delivering innovative and differentiated technologies that enable fundamental shifts in solutions for spine surgery. The company markets a complete portfolio of advanced spinal implant technologies. Learn more at http://www.spinalelements.com/.
About the Role
The Purchasing Specialist is responsible for independently executing procurement activities to support the manufacturing and distribution of spinal medical devices. This role ensures timely and cost-effective sourcing of raw materials, components, and indirect supplies while maintaining compliance with quality and regulatory requirements. Working cross-functionally with internal teams and external suppliers, the Purchasing Specialist supports supply continuity, optimizes inventory levels, and contributes to process improvements within the procurement function.
Primary Responsibilities Include:
- Manage purchase orders from creation to delivery, including order entry, confirmation, and tracking.
- Collaborate with suppliers to ensure on-time delivery, resolve delays, and manage exceptions proactively.
- Monitor supplier performance and escalate quality, service, or delivery issues to leadership.
- Work closely with engineering, planning, and manufacturing to align material supply with demand.
- Maintain accurate supplier records and pricing data within the ERP system.
- Support cost savings and lead time reduction initiatives through sourcing analysis and supplier consolidation efforts.
- Participate in supplier qualification activities and documentation gathering in accordance with regulatory and quality standards.
- Assist in resolving invoices and receiving discrepancies in coordination with Accounting and Receiving departments.
- Prepare routine reports and metrics related to purchasing KPIs and vendor performance.
- Contribute to the improvement of purchasing processes and documentation (SOPs, work instructions, etc.).
What Makes You Successful (KSA’s)
- Solid understanding of procurement processes in a regulated manufacturing environment.
- Familiarity with regulatory standards related to purchasing and supplier compliance.
- Proficient in ERP/MRP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Oracle); strong Excel skills.
- Strong organizational and time management skills with attention to detail.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills for internal and supplier collaboration.
- Problem-solving mindset with the ability to work independently.
- Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks in a deadline-driven environment.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
- 2 years of related purchasing or supply chain experience, preferably in a medical device, pharmaceutical, or other regulated manufacturing industry.
- May be working toward a professional qualification (e.g., CPSM, CSCP, CPIM).
- Experience with ERP systems and supply chain documentation required.
What You’ll Get (Benefits & Perks)
- A full and comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, and more
- Wellness program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Retirement savings plan (401k) with 4% company match (no vesting period)
- Educational reimbursement program
- 10 paid company holidays and 1 floating holiday
- 15 days PTO
- Sick Time
Work Authorization
US Work Authorization required
Work Environment
This job operates 100% onsite, in an office setting.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.
The employee will be required to perform duties at a computer workstation on a computer and phone. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds to prepare specimens and surgical set for events.
Spinal Elements is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
Salary : $26 - $30