Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or related field
5-7 years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment
Knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes relevant to cryogenic equipment
Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office, especially Excel
Strong negotiation and analytical skills
Leadership capabilities with a focus on team development
Ability to read and understand mechanical drawings is a plus
Responsibilities
Develop and implement procurement strategies aligned with business objectives
Qualify, audit, and manage critical vendors, evaluating performance metrics
Lead negotiations with suppliers for optimal pricing and contract compliance
Build and maintain strong relationships with key vendors
Collaborate with production teams to forecast demand and maintain stock levels
Analyze ERP/MRP systems to ensure timely material delivery
Track budgets and identify cost-saving opportunities
Benefits
Free HSA health plan or traditional PPO
401(k) with generous company match
Dental, vision, and optional coverage like accident & critical illness insurance
Company-paid Life, Long-Term Disability, and AD&D insurance
Confidential support for mental health and legal concerns through Employee Assistance Program
Discounts on gyms, shopping & entertainment
Health benefits kick in fast - first of the month after 30 days
Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, and Bereavement Leave
Full Job Description
Position Open: Purchasing/Procurement Manager
Location: Rock Hill, SC
Reports To: President
Job Summary:
The Purchasing Manager will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company's procurement activities, ensuring a reliable, cost-effective supply of materials, equipment, and services necessary for the design and manufacture of high-performance cryogenic storage and transportation solutions. This role demands strategic sourcing, strong vendor management, and close collaboration with the engineering, production, and quality control teams to meet stringent quality and safety standards unique to the cryogenic industry.
Job Description:
Develop and implement robust procurement strategies that align with business objectives, identifying and evaluating reliable domestic and international suppliers for raw materials (e.g., specialized metals, insulation), components (castings, machined, forged, welded parts, electronic components), and services.
Qualify, audit, and manage critical vendors; evaluate performance metrics related to on-time delivery, material quality, pricing consistency, and responsiveness.
Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure optimal pricing, terms, and conditions while ensuring all contracts comply with legal and industry-specific regulations.
Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key vendors. Monitor and evaluate supplier performance based on quality, cost, and delivery timelines, implementing corrective actions and improvement plans as needed.
Collaborate with production and inventory teams to forecast demand, plan procurement activities, and maintain optimal stock levels to avoid shortages or excess inventory.
Analyze ERP/MRP systems to ensure materials arrive on time to meet production schedules.
Ensure all procured items meet the required engineering specifications, quality standards, and safety regulations inherent to cryogenic systems. Coordinate with the quality team to resolve production or design problems with suppliers.
Track budgets, analyze spending, identify cost-saving opportunities, and implement initiatives to improve efficiency and reduce overall costs without compromising quality.
Oversee the daily activities of the purchasing department staff, providing leadership, training, and mentorship. Drive continuous improvement in purchasing systems and processes, potentially implementing new procurement software or systems (e.g., ERP)
Identify potential supply chain risks (price fluctuations, geopolitical issues, sole-source dependencies) and develop contingency plans to mitigate disruptions.
Act as a key liaison between the engineering department and suppliers to assure product compliance with technical drawings and specifications, potentially requiring a good technical aptitude or engineering background.
Competencies:
Knowledge of materials, components, and manufacturing processes (e.g., welding, machining) relevant to industrial/cryogenic equipment is highly preferred.
Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office, especially Excel
Strong negotiation and analytical skills
Leadership capabilities with a focus on team development and collaboration
Excellent written and verbal communication and people skills
Strong organizational, time-management, and problem-solving abilities
Ability to read and understand mechanical drawings is a plus.
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field
Experience:
Minimum of 5 to 7 years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment, with demonstrated progression of responsibility, preferably within an industrial gas, or similar sector
Benefits Designed to Work for You:
Free HSA health plan or traditional PPO
401(k) with generous company match (Safe Harbor)
Dental, vision, and optional coverage like accident & critical illness insurance
HSA and FSA accounts to save on healthcare costs
Company-paid Life, Long-Term Disability, and AD&D insurance
Confidential support for mental health, family matters, legal concerns, and more through our Employee Assistance Program
Discounts on gyms, shopping & entertainment
Health benefits kick in fast - first of the month after 30 days
Time Off We offer a variety of paid time off options to support rest, wellness, and personal needs:
