Procurement Associate

Position Summary

The Procurement Associate is responsible for supporting procurement activities for aerosol manufacturing operations by sourcing raw materials, packaging components, and indirect supplies required to maintain production schedules. This role works closely with suppliers, production planning, quality assurance, inventory control, and finance teams to ensure timely procurement of materials while maintaining cost efficiency, quality standards, and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement & Purchasing

· Generate and process purchase orders for raw materials, components, packaging, and indirect materials.

· Maintain appropriate inventory levels to support production requirements.

· Monitor supplier lead times and delivery schedules to avoid production disruptions.

· Obtain quotations and negotiate pricing, delivery terms, and service agreements with suppliers.

· Track open purchase orders and expedite critical deliveries when necessary.

· Coordinate with manufacturing teams to address urgent material requirements.

· Support new product development projects by sourcing materials and obtaining supplier samples.

Supplier Management

· Develop and maintain strong relationships with approved suppliers.

· Evaluate supplier performance related to quality, delivery, pricing, and responsiveness (supplier scorecards).

· Assist in identifying and qualifying alternative suppliers to reduce supply risk.

· Coordinate supplier corrective actions in collaboration with Quality and Operations teams.

Compliance & Documentation

· Maintain accurate procurement records and supplier documentation.

· Ensure purchased materials comply with company specifications, safety requirements, and applicable regulations.

· Support supplier audits and documentation requests.

Qualifications

Education

· Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, Operations Management, or related field preferred.

· Equivalent combination of education and procurement experience may be considered.

Experience

· 5+ years of procurement, purchasing, or supply chain experience.

· Experience in manufacturing environments preferred.

· Aerosol, chemical, packaging, or consumer products industry experience is highly desirable.

Skills & Competencies

· Knowledge of procurement processes and supplier management practices.

· Understanding of manufacturing inventory control principles.

· Strong negotiation and communication skills.

· Proficiency in ERP/MRP and inventory management systems.

· Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

· High attention to detail and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications

· Knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials.

· Familiarity with hazardous materials handling and transportation regulations.

· APICS, CPSM, CSCP, or related supply chain certification.

· Experience with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.

Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 40.0 per week

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person