Applied Materials, Inc

NPC Strategic Sourcing Manager (SSM)

Applied Materials, Inc$108K — $148K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience in strategic sourcing and supply chain management, preferably in the semiconductor industry.
  • Proven track record of independently leading complex sourcing programs in fast-paced corporate environments.
  • Strong negotiation skills with experience in contracting and cost optimization.
  • Demonstrated expertise in managing supplier relationships and evaluation processes.
  • Ability to translate strategies into operational workstreams and actionable KPIs.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute commodity strategies based on market intelligence and supplier assessment.
  • Select and qualify suppliers through comprehensive evaluation processes including RFx.
  • Negotiate contracts focusing on pricing, terms, and total cost of ownership optimization.
  • Manage program execution with a focus on timelines, milestones, and risk mitigation.
  • Coordinate cross-functional efforts to ensure supply chain readiness and efficiency during NPI to HVM transitions.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and retirement plans.
  • Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
  • Participation in bonus and stock award programs based on eligibility.
  • Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
Full Job Description
We are looking for an accomplished Strategic Sourcing Manager with a strong sense of accountability to join our New Product Commercialization (NPC) Corporate Strategic Initiatives (CSI) team. The successful candidate will own commodity strategy, supplier selection, cost performance, and the timely integration of CoE technology innovations into NPI programs. Candidates should have strategic sourcing and supply chain expertise, preferably in semiconductors, and proven experience leading complex sourcing programs independently in a fast-paced, corporate-level environment.

NPC CSI Strategic Sourcing is the strategic enterprise integration layer connecting Centers of Excellence (CoE), Business Units, and Global Supply Chain. The mission is to accelerate new product commercialization through cross-functional synergies, standardized supply-chain strategy and execution, improved cost and gross margin performance, and the timely proliferation of technology innovations into NPI programs.

The SSM is a success-critical enabler for CoE innovation implementation, driving:
  • Product Sourcing Strategy - agile, scalable, resilient product ramp through GSC ecosystems.
  • Product Cost Performance - product viability and gross margin performance.
  • Corporate Synergies - leverage across CoE teams, BUs, and Global Supply Chain.
  • Effective Implementation - deploy technology innovations and cost optimization into new products.

Scope spans Supply Chain Strategy & Resiliency, Lab Qual/Cut-in Management, CM Selection & HVM Readiness, Cost Apportionment Model (CAM), Best BoM Assessment, and Cost Reduction Roadmap & Execution across MCOS.

Required Skills & Responsibilities

1. Strategic Sourcing & Commodity Management
  • Commodity strategy: market intelligence, supplier landscape, multi-year sourcing roadmaps.
  • Supplier selection and qualification: RFx, technical/commercial evaluation, CM selection for HVM readiness.
  • Negotiation and contracting: pricing, SOWs, T&Cs, and TCO optimization.
  • CAM, should-costing, Best BoM scenarios, and cost reduction roadmap execution.
  • Supply chain resiliency: dual sourcing, risk mitigation, and lab qual / cut-in management.

2. Program & Project Management
  • End-to-end planning: scope, schedule, critical path, dependencies, milestones.
  • Execution rigor: operating cadence, action tracking, stakeholder readouts.
  • Risk & issue management: RAID logs, mitigation, escalation, decision logs.
  • Vendor/partner coordination and governance across internal/external teams.

3. Supply Chain & Semiconductor Domain
  • NPI to HVM ramp: supply readiness, capacity planning, ramp governance.
  • Semi supply chain: lead-times, allocation, shortage management, lifecycle/obsolescence.
  • Supplier management: qualification, scorecards, QBRs, corrective actions.
  • Manufacturing & logistics fundamentals (MRP concepts, inventory, material flow).
  • Preferred Commodity Experience:
  • Sensors - optical, motion, temperature, pressure, and process sensors.
  • Solid State Batteries - next-generation energy storage, cell chemistry, and qualification.
  • PCBA - CM/EMS engagement, BoM management, component sourcing, HVM ramp.

4. Strategic Initiative Leadership
  • Translate strategy into executable workstreams, KPIs, and outcomes.
  • Executive governance: steering committees, decision forums, status narratives.
  • Cross-functional alignment across engineering, sourcing, operations, finance, quality, legal.
  • Benefits realization: track adoption, savings, and operational impact to closure.

5. Data, Analytics & Communication
  • Quantitative analysis: business cases, sensitivities, scenarios; KPI design.
  • Advanced Excel (pivot tables, Power Query/Power Pivot) and PowerPoint storytelling.
  • Influence without authority; concise written and verbal communication.
  • Executive presence: present complex topics simply and handle challenging Q&A.

6. Accountability & Execution Mindset
  • Thrives in a highly complex, energetic, corporate-level environment with an independent work style.
  • High ownership: identifies gaps, proposes solutions, and drives closure.
  • Bias for action with quality and compliance; structured problem solving (5 Whys, Fishbone).
  • Continuous improvement: Lean/Kaizen, standard work, and process optimization.

Preferred Commodity Experience
  • Sensors - optical, motion, temperature, pressure, and process sensors.
  • Solid State Batteries - next-generation energy storage, cell chemistry, and qualification.
  • PCBA - CM/EMS engagement, BoM management, component sourcing, HVM ramp.

Competency Expectations
  • Interprets business challenges and recommends best practices to improve products, processes, or services.
  • Leads cross-functional teams or projects with moderate resource needs, risk, and complexity.
  • Solves complex problems using sophisticated analytical thought and innovative solutions.
  • Impacts customer, operational, project, or service objectives; guided by functional policies.
  • Communicates difficult concepts and negotiates to align stakeholders.


Additional Information

Time Type:
Full time

Employee Type:
Assignee / Regular

Travel:
Yes, 10% of the Time

Relocation Eligible:
Yes

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

About Applied Materials, Inc

Applied Materials specialize in materials engineering solutions. They optimize equipment and fab operations through consulting, spare parts, services, and automation software. They also provide supply chain services from transactional spares through programs, rebuilds, and forecasted parts management. Their products and technologies include semiconductors, displays, roll web coating, solar, and automation software.

**Applied Materials, Inc. Careers**

Join the innovative world of Applied Materials, Inc., a leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. Our global team is driving innovation and growth in the industries we serve. This is where your expertise can make a true impact.

Work You’ll Do

At Applied Materials, Inc., you will be part of a company that prides itself on fostering a culture of innovation, diversity, and professional growth. As a member of our team, you will lead groundbreaking projects at the intersection of technology, leadership, and engineering excellence. We offer a variety of job opportunities that allow you to explore your potential and push the boundaries of what's possible.

Innovate and Lead

Join a team where innovation is at the heart of everything we do. You will work alongside the brightest minds in the industry, utilizing your skills to contribute to projects that are not only exciting but also crucial for technological advancements. Our leadership is committed to providing you with the guidance and support needed to achieve your career goals.

Career Growth and Opportunities

Whether you are looking for an internship, a full-time position, or leadership roles, Applied Materials, Inc. provides an array of career paths to help you achieve your professional aspirations. Our commitment to career growth is evident through extensive training programs and opportunities for advancement.

Diversity and Inclusion

At Applied Materials, Inc., we believe that diversity fuels innovation. We are dedicated to building a diverse team that reflects the global communities we serve. Our diversity training programs are designed to enhance collaboration and foster an inclusive environment where all employees can thrive.

Benefits and Culture

Our employees enjoy a range of benefits that support both their professional and personal lives. From health and wellness programs to competitive retirement plans, we ensure that our team is taken care of. The culture at Applied Materials, Inc. is built on collaboration, respect, and a commitment to excellence.

Join Our Team

Explore the job opportunities at Applied Materials, Inc. and find the position that matches your skills and passions. We are continuously hiring and looking for individuals who are curious, creative, and ready to drive innovation in a dynamic industry.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest company news, career tips, and industry insights by joining our network. Engage with us on professional networking platforms and stay ahead in your career journey.

Apply Now

Ready to take the next step in your career? Submit your resume, prepare for your interview, and join a team that’s dedicated to materializing the technologies of tomorrow. Discover the impact you can make at Applied Materials, Inc. and help us shape the future.

SEARCH APPLIED MATERIALS JOBS

--- This page for Applied Materials, Inc. Careers incorporates all the requested elements, maintaining the "Company Content Style" with a focus on innovation, career growth, and the dynamic team environment.
Learn more about Applied Materials, Inc
Size
27,000 employees
Market Cap
$80.7 billion
Industry
Net Income
$3.8 billion
Founded
1967
5 Year Trend
+11.9%
Revenue
$18.2 billion
NASDAQ

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