Procurement Manager

Location:

Vista, CA (Onsite)

Schedule:

Monday-Friday | Flexible Start Time (7:00 AM-9:00 AM)

Travel: 5%-10% Domestic & International

Join a rapidly growing advanced manufacturing organization at the forefront of lithium-ion battery technology. As the Strategic Sourcing & Procurement Manager, you will play a critical role in building and scaling a global supply chain that supports both pilot production and future high-volume manufacturing operations.

This is a highly visible leadership position responsible for developing sourcing strategies, optimizing supplier performance, reducing material costs, mitigating supply chain risk, and ensuring a reliable supply base for next-generation battery manufacturing. The ideal candidate combines strategic sourcing expertise with hands-on experience in fast-paced manufacturing environments.

• Develop and execute global sourcing strategies for direct materials, components, capital equipment, and manufacturing services.
• Identify, qualify, onboard, and manage domestic and international suppliers.
• Lead commercial negotiations involving pricing, contracts, long-term agreements (LTAs), payment terms, warranties, and Incoterms.
• Drive measurable cost-reduction initiatives through spend analysis, cost modeling, and Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) methodologies.
• Establish dual-source strategies and supplier risk mitigation plans to ensure supply continuity.
• Support new product introductions (NPI), pilot builds, and manufacturing scale-up initiatives.
• Partner cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, Quality, Finance, and R&D teams to optimize sourcing decisions.
• Develop supplier scorecards and lead supplier performance reviews focused on quality, cost, delivery, and responsiveness.
• Conduct supplier audits and on-site evaluations as needed.
• Monitor and report sourcing metrics, procurement performance, and supply chain strategies to senior leadership.

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, Materials Science, or a related field.
• 7+ years of strategic sourcing and procurement experience within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience developing sourcing strategies for direct materials, components, equipment, and production services.
• Demonstrated success negotiating complex supplier agreements and delivering significant cost savings.
• Strong understanding of supplier relationship management, supplier performance management, and commercial risk mitigation.
• Experience working with global suppliers, particularly within Asia.
• Expertise in supplier diversification, dual sourcing strategies, and contingency planning.
• Advanced analytical, negotiation, communication, and financial acumen.
• Experience supporting production ramp-ups, pilot programs, and NPI activities.
• Proficiency with ERP systems such as Net Suite, SAP, or similar platforms.
• Advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills.

• Experience sourcing chemicals, critical materials, or components used in battery manufacturing.
• Aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing industry experience.
• Knowledge of AS9100, export controls, NDAA compliance, or related industry requirements.
• Lithium-ion battery, energy storage, or electrification industry experience.
• Mandarin language proficiency.
• Experience in startup or high-growth manufacturing environments.
• ERP implementation experience.

• Strategic sourcing mindset focused on long-term supply chain optimization.
• Strong negotiation skills with a track record of reducing material costs.
• Ability to build and maintain high-performing supplier partnerships.
• Exceptional attention to detail, particularly around BOMs, material planning, and inventory management.
• Solutions-oriented approach with the ability to navigate ambiguity and drive results in a fast-paced environment.
• Continuous improvement mentality with a focus on lean manufacturing principles and supply chain efficiency.

This is a unique opportunity to influence the growth of an innovative manufacturing organization by building a world-class supply chain from the ground up. You'll work closely with executive leadership, drive strategic initiatives, and play a direct role in supporting the future of advanced battery technology and manufacturing.

This is a Permanent position based out of Carlsbad, CA.

The pay range for this…