Sr. Procurement Specialist

The Fountain Group is a national staffing firm and we are currently seeking a Senior Specialist – Procurement or a prominent client of ours. This position is in Alameda, CA
. Details for the position are as follows:

Senior Specialist Procurement

Location: Alameda, CA
Schedule: Fully On-Site
Pay Rate: $38 – $40/hour

We are seeking a Senior Specialist Procurement to support purchasing and supply management strategies aligned with enterprise “One Procurement” initiatives. This role partners closely with Category Managers, internal stakeholders, and suppliers to drive value, improve procurement processes, and deliver strong customer service while maintaining high standards of business ethics and integrity.

The Senior Specialist acts as a subject matter expert (SME) within procurement categories, supports complex sourcing initiatives, and has delegated authority to commit company funds. This individual will help resolve procurement challenges related to value, quality, feasibility, and specifications while contributing to cost savings, supplier partnerships, and continuous improvement efforts.

• Execute purchasing and supply management strategies developed by Category Managers
• Support PO conversion activities, including non-transactional negotiations
• Manage PO approvals up to $1,000,000
• Lead complex RFPs and develop bid and proposal formats
• Drive supplier integration initiatives and establish KPI tracking
• Evaluate and manage PO change requests and identify root causes

• Resolve operational procurement issues, including invoice errors and workflow challenges
• Identify opportunities to improve procurement processes, cycle times, and customer service levels
• Educate stakeholders on procurement tools, performance solutions, and technology platforms
• Proactively develop innovative approaches that drive value and cost savings outcomes

• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams and divisional customers
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, including diverse suppliers
• Communicate requirements and ensure appropriate documentation for purchases
• Support category purchasing strategies and continuous improvement initiatives

• Serve as a procurement SME across assigned categories
• Provide guidance and direction within areas of expertise
• Lead small projects and coordinate work streams (non-supervisory leadership role)
• Support initiatives that impact the broader “One Procurement” organization

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, Business, Finance, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 4–6 years of procurement, sourcing, or related functional experience
• Strong project management and problem‑solving skills
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
  
  Proficiency in Microsoft Excel or similar spreadsheet tools
• Strong customer service mindset and ability to work cross‑functionally

• CPM or CPSM certification preferred
• Experience in Procurement, Category Management, or Project Management
• Financial analysis experience (spend management, savings tracking, benchmarking)
• Analytical expertise such as gap analysis, scenario planning, or forward modeling
• Supplier management experience including selection, relationship management, and contracting
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Power Point