POSITION BACKGROUND

We are seeking a skilled and adaptable professional to join our team as a Supply Chain Manager or Engineer, depending on background. This role is pivotal in overseeing the procurement of materials, components, and services, ensuring production runs smoothly while optimizing costs and supply chain efficiency. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with Engineering, Production, and Accounting teams, leveraging deep product knowledge and technical or operational expertise. Strong reporting skills and proficiency in Excel, ERP systems, and database management are essential to drive informed decisions and maintain seamless operations.

Wisconsin Lighting Lab is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all applicants without regard to race, creed, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or membership in any other legally protected class.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Lead the identification, evaluation, and negotiation with suppliers to secure materials, components, and services that meet quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
• Oversee material availability, inventory levels, and supplier performance to align with production schedules and customer demand, minimizing disruptions.
• Monitor stock levels, coordinate with production teams, and implement strategies to balance inventory without overstocking, using data-driven insights.
• Build and maintain strong vendor relationships, resolve supply issues, and evaluate supplier reliability to ensure a robust supply chain.
• Analyze purchasing and supply chain costs, identify savings opportunities, and ensure alignment with budgets and operational goals.
• Partner with Engineering to source materials meeting technical specifications, support new product development and propose viable substitutes when needed.
• Work with Production to align material deliveries with manufacturing timelines, address urgent needs, and ensure operational continuity.
• Collaborate with Accounting to manage purchase order approvals, invoice reconciliation, and payment processes with accuracy and transparency.
• Maintain detailed records of purchases, supplier contracts, and supply chain metrics using Excel and ERP systems. Generate actionable reports on costs, lead times, and performance trends.
• Apply engineering or supply chain expertise to evaluate material quality, troubleshoot supply issues, and improve procurement processes.
• Ensure all sourcing and supply chain activities meet company standards, industry regulations, and quality requirements.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering (e.g., Mechanical, Industrial), Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience: 3+ years in supply chain, procurement, or engineering roles within a manufacturing or distribution environment.
• Ability to develop or apply a thorough understanding of the company’s products, materials, and technical requirements to make strategic sourcing and supply chain decisions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with Engineering, Production, and Accounting, ensuring alignment across departments.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUP, data analysis) for cost tracking, forecasting, and reporting. Experience with ERP systems for managing procurement, inventory, and supplier data.
• Strong ability to maintain and update supply chain and purchasing databases with precision.
• Proven skills in negotiating with suppliers and resolving supply chain or technical challenges efficiently.
• Ability to interpret technical specs and contribute to design or process improvements; expertise in logistics, planning, or vendor management.
• Capable of prioritizing tasks in a dynamic environment to meet production deadlines and supply chain goals.

We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and opportunities for professional growth. If you are collaborative and enjoy a work environment that values innovation and teamwork, we want to hear from you.

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