Strategic Commodity Buyer (Electronics) - Saginaw

Nexteer•Saginaw, MI

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Strategic Commodity Buyer – Electronics will be responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing Printed Circuit Board Assemblies (PCBA) for Electronic Power Steering (EPS) systems. This role involves supplier negotiations, cost management, and ensuring the supply chain meets quality, delivery, and cost objectives. The buyer collaborates with cross-functional teams, including engineering, quality, and supply chain, to optimize sourcing strategies and mitigate risks.

Requirements

5+ years in procurement or supply chain management, with proven experience in sourcing of PCBA.
Experience with automotive supplier management (Tier 1 or Tier 2) required.
Understanding of PCBA manufacturing, electronic components (MCUs, capacitors, resistors, etc.), and SMT processes required.
Familiarity with automotive electronic quality standards (e.g., AEC-Q, PPAP, APQP) required.
Strong negotiation and contract management skills and ability to analyze cost structures and conduct supplier benchmarking required.
Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field.

Nice To Haves

Experience in VA/VE initiatives for electronic components preferred.
Knowledge of global supply chain constraints affecting PCBA sourcing preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute sourcing strategies for PCBA and electronic components used in EPS systems.
Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to enhance cost-effectiveness and supply security.
Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts to achieve cost savings while ensuring supplier accountability.
Manage relationships with key PCBA suppliers, ensuring on-time delivery, quality compliance, and cost performance.
Monitor supplier performance using KPIs (e.g., quality, OTD, cost competitiveness) and implement corrective actions when needed.
Work with suppliers to drive cost reduction initiatives (VA/VE, localization, DFM/DFA improvements).
Conduct cost analysis for PCBA assemblies and electronic components, benchmarking against industry standards.
Implement risk mitigation strategies for supply chain disruptions, component shortages, and geopolitical risks.
Support Make vs. Buy decisions and dual sourcing strategies to ensure continuity of supply.
Work closely with engineering and R&D to align sourcing strategies with new product development.
Support quality teams in resolving supplier-related quality issues (e.g., PPAP, 8D problem-solving).
Assist in supply chain planning by aligning supplier capacity with demand forecasts.
Ensure purchased PCBAs comply with automotive industry standards (IATF 16949, ISO 26262, RoHS, REACH, and APQP).
Maintain accurate procurement records, contracts, and supplier agreements in ERP systems.