Senior Buyer BESS

Description

• Lead strategic sourcing initiatives for EV and BESS battery components (electrode, cell, module, pack, DC/AC).
• Contribute to continuous improvement programs focused on lead time reduction, working capital improvement, and supply chain sustainability.
• Ensure compliance with international trade, ESG, and industry-specific standards (IATF16949, ISO14001, RoHS, etc.).
• Analyze spending data, develop category strategies, and drive Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) decisions.
• Negotiate master purchasing agreement, pricing, delivery terms, and warranties with local and global suppliers.
• Lead commercial relationship management including business reviews, contract enforcement, performance monitoring, and risk mitigation.
• Track and report on key procurement metrics such as cost savings, supplier performance, and sourcing risk.
• Serve as the primary escalation point for supplier issues related to cost, quality, and delivery.
• Translate technical drawings, BOMs, and specs into sourcing requirements.
• Partner with Engineering and R&D to influence design-for-cost and manufacturability decisions.
• Drive expansion of U.S. local supplier pool
• Support NPI and prototype builds with timely sourcing of advanced and emerging battery technologies.
• Lead and support in evaluating and implementation of Global and Regional Processes and Procedures
• Execute RFQ/RFP processes, cost breakdown analysis, and supplier selection using tools like SAP Ariba.

Requirements

• Aptitude to analyze industry trends and competitor actions and have a general curiosity and passion for BESS and EV acceleration.
• 5 - 7 years of experience in direct purchasing, sourcing, or supply chain within battery, automotive, energy, or electronics manufacturing.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (up to 30%).
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite).
• Ability to read, write, speak, hear; stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach and lift with hands and arms frequently throughout the day.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in creating presentations and other high-quality deliverables.
• Understands and follows all standards of IATF16949 and VDA 6.3 quality standards. (training and awareness will be provided for those who are not familiar with these standards)
• Highly automated, clean, safe, and temperature-controlled production environment
• Self-starter, highly organized, with strong problem-solving skills and business acumen.
• Proven success in complex contract negotiation, cost modeling, and supplier development.
• Ability to sit for extended periods of time.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Supply Chain, Industrial Technology, or a related technical field. Master’s Degree or MBA preferred.
• Demonstrates effective problem-solving and project management skills and strives for continuous improvement.
• Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and analytics tools; experience with Ariba or similar e-sourcing tools is a plus.
• Familiarity with Tier 1 & 2 contract manufacturing models and localization strategies.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with ability to influence at multiple levels.
• Strong understanding of BESS and EV battery value chains, including raw materials (e.g., cathode, anode, electrolyte), cell/module/pack technologies, and supporting DC/AC systems.
• Feels comfortable managing large, complex data sets and can leverage analytical skills to drive and influence business decisions.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical specs, and manufacturing processes.
• Understanding of global compliance regulations, trade agreements, and sustainability standards (IRA, EU Battery Passport, etc.).
• Desire and proven ability to work in a fast paced, “rapid growth”, and collaborative environment.

Benefits

• Paid Vacation and 14 Paid Holidays
• Tuition reimbursement
• An inclusive and diverse work environment that fosters and encourages professional and personal development.
• Life Insurance (Company paid and additional voluntary life available)
• 401K with company match
• Short term and long-term disability coverage (Company Paid)
• HSA and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance