Procurement Specialist - Los Angeles, CA

Outlast•Los Angeles, CA

19h•Hybrid

About The Position

Outlast is disrupting the bulk recyclables industry, a ~$1 trillion market, by transforming trade through technology. Our platform enables suppliers and buyers to safely and effortlessly transact materials, providing global logistics, financing, and quality control. We focus on optimizing customer experience and promoting recycling, which has significant environmental benefits. Outlast is experiencing rapid growth, securing funding and contracts that project substantial revenue. This role is a hands-on buying position focused on scrap aluminum purchasing, requiring negotiation, order placement, and meeting procurement targets. The specialist will report to the VP of Finance & Business Operations and collaborate with operations, sales, and technology teams. This is a ground-up role where the individual will establish new supplier relationships and implement basic procurement processes. Prior experience in the scrap metal industry is not required, as the market knowledge will be taught; however, hustle, curiosity, and problem-solving skills are essential.

Requirements

Previous buying experience in any industry, including sourcing goods or materials, negotiating with suppliers, and placing orders.
Strong negotiation skills, with comfort in discussing price, terms, and delivery.
Ability to think on your feet and hold firm when necessary.
Self-starter mentality, taking initiative without waiting for instructions.
Comfort with ambiguity and a startup environment where processes are still being developed.
Fast learner, capable of quickly understanding new markets through direct engagement.
High energy and a proactive approach to interactions.
Positive momentum in all interactions, making suppliers and teammates want to work with you.

Nice To Haves

Experience with physical goods or commodity procurement (metals, chemicals, agricultural products, manufacturing inputs).
Background in the scrap metal, recycling, or secondary materials industry.
Experience in a startup or early-stage company.
Comfort with AI tools, data analysis, or workflow automation.
Experience in markets with volatile or frequently changing prices.

Responsibilities

Buy scrap aluminum, sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing material to meet targets.
Build supplier relationships by identifying, qualifying, and onboarding new suppliers to grow the sourcing network.
Visit supplier yards to learn the market, including aluminum alloy grades, ISRI scrap specifications, pricing dynamics, and the supplier landscape.
Establish procurement workflows, including repeatable processes for supplier communication, order tracking, pricing records, and reporting.
Integrate with the company's platform and financial systems.
Coordinate with sales on material specifications and timing, operations on logistics and quality, and finance on pricing and margins.
Utilize AI tools, data, and automation to enhance productivity and work smarter, moving away from traditional industry methods.