Strategic Commodity Buyer; Electronics - Saginaw

Location:

Saginaw, MI, US

Position:
Strategic Commodity Buyer
- Electronics

At Nexteer, our strength lies in the diversity of our team—each member contributing unique backgrounds, experiences, and aspirations. We believe this diversity fuels our innovation, broadens our perspectives, and propels our collective growth.

On behalf of electric and hydraulic power steering systems, steer-by-wire systems, steering columns and intermediate shafts, driveline systems and software solutions, Nexteer Accelerates mobility to be safe, green and exciting. Our innovative type products solve motion control challenges across many megatrends for more than 60 customers worldwide.

The Strategic Commodity Buyer – Electronics will be responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing Printed Circuit Board Assemblies (PCBA) for Electronic Power Steering (EPS) systems. This role involves supplier negotiations, cost management, and ensuring the supply chain meets quality, delivery, and cost objectives. The buyer collaborates with cross-functional teams, including engineering, quality, and supply chain, to optimize sourcing strategies and mitigate risks.

• Sourcing & Procurement:
  • Develop and execute sourcing strategies for PCBA and electronic components used in EPS systems.
  • Identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers to enhance cost-effectiveness and supply security.
  • Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts to achieve cost savings while ensuring supplier accountability.
• Manage relationships with key PCBA suppliers, ensuring on-time delivery, quality compliance, and cost performance.
• Monitor supplier performance using KPIs (e.g., quality, OTD, cost competitiveness) and implement corrective actions when needed.
• Work with suppliers to drive cost reduction initiatives (VA/VE, localization, DFM/DFA improvements).
• Conduct cost analysis for PCBA assemblies and electronic components, benchmarking against industry standards.
• Implement risk mitigation strategies for supply chain disruptions, component shortages, and geopolitical risks.
• Support Make vs. Buy decisions and dual sourcing strategies to ensure continuity of supply.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Work closely with engineering and R&D to align sourcing strategies with new product development.
  • Support quality teams in resolving supplier-related quality issues (e.g., PPAP, 8D problem-solving).
  • Assist in supply chain planning by aligning supplier capacity with demand forecasts.
• Compliance & Documentation:
  • Ensure purchased PCBA comply with automotive industry standards (IATF 16949, ISO 26262, RoHS, REACH, and APQP).
  • Maintain accurate procurement records, contracts, and supplier agreements in ERP systems.
• Hybrid work environment, with some global travel required for supplier visits and audits.

• 5+ years in procurement or supply chain management, with proven experience in sourcing of PCBA. Experience with automotive supplier management (Tier 1 or Tier
  2) required.
• Understanding of PCBA manufacturing, electronic components (MCUs, capacitors, resistors, etc.), and SMT processes required.
• Familiarity with automotive electronic quality standards (e.g., AEC-Q, PPAP, APQP) required.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills and ability to analyze cost structures and conduct supplier benchmarking required.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience in VA/VE initiatives for electronic components preferred.
• Knowledge of global supply chain constraints affecting PCBA sourcing preferred.

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field.

Nexteer is an Equal Opportunity Employer Disabled/Minorities/Veterans/Women

Nexteer is an E-Verify employer.

Accessibility for Applicants with Disabilities: If you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please email  Please provide your contact information and details about the posted position of interest. Only inquiries regarding assistance for those who need an accommodation with the online application process due to a disability will be returned.

About Nexteer

Nexteer Automotive is a global leading motion control technology company accelerating mobility to be safe, green and exciting. Our innovative product and technology portfolio includes electric and hydraulic power steering systems, steer-by-wire systems, steering columns and intermediate shafts, driveline systems and software solutions. The company solves motion control challenges across all megatrends – including electrification, software/connectivity, ADAS/automated driving and shared mobility – for more than 60 customers around the world including BMW, Ford, GM, RNM, Stellantis, Toyota and VW.