Associate Specialist, Materials Mgmt

CenterPoint Energy•Houston, TX

About The Position

CenterPoint Energy is seeking a Material Specialist to join its Gas Utility team. The role manages procurement bidding processes, purchase orders, invoices, and material records, while supporting communication with suppliers and internal teams. It also includes executing PR reports, managing past-due purchase orders, and reconciling invoices to resolve discrepancies. The position contributes to a streamlined supply chain and requires attention to detail, proficiency with SAP and Excel, and an understanding of material management processes. The specialist leads procurement from preparing and issuing RFQs/RFPs through evaluating vendor proposals and negotiating contracts. The role also oversees purchase order fulfillment, supplier relationships, inventory and material planning, procurement data analysis and reporting, and compliance documentation. The position requires a bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field, and over five years of experience in supply chain management or a related field focused on process improvement and material management.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
Over 5 years of experience in supply chain management or a related field, with a focus on process improvement and material management.
Proficiency in ERP systems SAP Fusion and S4/HANA and other supply chain management tools.
Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and external suppliers.
Knowledge of industry best practices and regulatory requirements related to procurement and materials management.
Proficiency in SAP and Excel.

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end procurement, including preparing and issuing RFQs/RFPs, evaluating vendor proposals, and negotiating contracts for pricing, quality, and delivery terms.
Create and track purchase orders to support timely and accurate fulfillment of material requirements.
Develop and maintain supplier relationships, resolve issues, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
Collaborate with planning and production teams to forecast material needs, manage inventory levels, and prevent shortages or overstock situations.
Analyze procurement data, monitor supplier performance, and generate reports using ERP systems and other tools.
Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies and regulatory requirements, and maintain accurate records of contracts, bids, and purchase orders.
Execute PR reports, manage past-due purchase orders, and reconcile invoices to resolve discrepancies.
Manage invoicing, material records, and communications with suppliers and internal teams.

Benefits

Competitive pay
Paid training
Benefits eligibility begins on the first day
Transit subsidies
Flexible work schedule
Paid holidays
Paid time off
Access to fitness club discounts
Access to an on-site wellness center at the Houston headquarters
Professional growth and development programs
Tuition reimbursement
401(k) Savings Plan with a company match dollar-for-dollar up to 6% and a company contribution of 3% regardless of employee contribution