Prototype Buyer

Magna International•Southfield, CA

About The Position

The prototype buyer is responsible for supporting prototype and development procurement activities for the Core /Application projects within an assigned region. The role acts as a key interface between internal engineering teams, project stakeholders, and external suppliers to ensure timely placement of purchase orders, technical alignment, and smooth prototype execution.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business or equivalent.
1-3 years of purchasing or materials management experience.
Strong written and verbal communication skills to communicate with internal and external contacts at all levels.
Knowledge of ERP systems (SAP) and Purchase to Pay Process and Tools (Coupa)
Knowledge of product development practices in the automotive field including knowledge of the application and delivery of advanced electronic systems into the automotive industry.
Skills in problem-solving, keen analytical abilities in a teamwork setting and knowledge of risk management.
Willingness to perform "hands-on" work.
Advanced knowledge of MS Office.
Comprehensive knowledge of English (verbal and written).
Able to work effectively in a global environment.
Able to represent technical topics internally and externally.
Able to maintain confidentiality.
Negotiation skills.
Ability to multitask by handling diverse assignments concurrently.
Self-starter who can work in a fast-paced and multifaceted environment.
Strong and effective decision-making skills.

Responsibilities

Track, create, and update Purchase Order (PO) status for prototype and development parts upon project and engineering confirmation.
Coordinate internally with finance, and project teams to ensure PO release aligns with project timelines.
Act as a primary procurement contact for suppliers during RFQ and prototype phases.
Follow up with suppliers on pricing, lead times, delivery commitments, and production start readiness.
Support engineering discussions by relaying procurement-relevant feedback related to materials, standard components and supplier feasibility.
Ensure supplier proposals (material changes, standard parts deviations) are commercially reviewed, if applicable negotiated and routed to engineering for confirmation.
Enable on-time prototype to build by aligning PO placement with agreed technical decisions (drawings, specifications, materials).
Monitor prototype quantities, supplier readiness, and agreed delivery dates to avoid schedule impacts.
Work closely with Engineering, Project Management, and other Buyers to close open action items related to RFQs, DFM feedback, and prototype execution.
Provide clear status updates to internal stakeholders when requested.
Daily interaction with Logistics , Operations , Controlling teams.