Product Specialist

Overview

The New Product Introduction (NPI) Specialist is responsible for project management of new product materials (RFQ, Tooling, PPAP, and Transfer) for NPI products, partnering with the Strategic Global Sourcing team and cross‑functional collaborators. The role also manages sustaining end‑of‑life product changes that impact material product costs.

• Participate in product platform value chain by ensuring program deliverables are met by timely delivery of material.
• Analyze quotations from different suppliers, utilizing the TCO total cost of ownership tools and should cost of the parts, components, etc.
• Negotiate with suppliers as to the cost of parts and tooling, and project timelines.
• Update and maintain the Costed Bill of Material (CBOM) for each specific NPI project.
• Manage suppliers On Time Delivery (OTD) performance during prototype / development phases (Gate 1 to Gate
  4).
• Manage the PPAP orders for new parts of sustaining or end‑of‑life new parts from the order inception, quality inspection review and engineering sign‑off.
• Manage individual part release status, while working with engineering to manage the releases associated with on‑going changes (BSS data load).
• Work with production buyers to transfer material purchasing responsibility, once the new parts have obtained approved PPAP status.
• Manage NPI related ECO’s and sustaining ECO’s that affect new part changes related to the 3‑year product plan.
• Manage tactical purchasing activities such as expediting material, PG orders, past‑due PO’s, open PO’s, PO confirmations, Receiving/Purchasing related issues, IFM Accounting/Purchasing related issues, etc.
• Update and maintain standard costs within the system during the NPI project and sustaining of new parts phase.
• Conduct and facilitate technical design reviews with suppliers, in order to confirm functionality of the part / component and manufacturability.
• Assist the SGS MPM with the sourcing of new suppliers for new or existing products.
• Act as SAP Super User within functional area as assigned.
• Manage and update the SC War room data including/but not limited to:
  Current production product costs, NPI project deck, Project updates – risks and mitigation plans, and Cost reduction initiatives/ cost bridges.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain or related field OR 4years related experience in the Supply Chain field within a similar working environment.

• Proven experience with engineering change processes.
• Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent project management skills.
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Solid quantitative and problem‑solving skills with the ability to analyze, think and communicate with well‑supported data.
• Proven track record of successfully managing shifting deadlines and priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

• Previous experience working in SAP or equivalent ERP.
• Understanding of inventory management requirements.
• Previous experience working in the development cycle of new products.

• Regularly required to talk and hear; use hands to manipulate objects or controls.
• Regularly required to stand and walk.
• Occasionally required to stoop, bend or reach above the shoulders.
• Must occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Typical of frequent and continuous computer‑based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision and ability to adjust focus.

• Health, dental, vision and 401(k) plans.
• State‑of‑the‑art facility with an onsite gym, walking trails, café, free parking and many employee activities.
• Scheduled events throughout the year for employees and retirees.
• Summer hours (Memorial Day – Labor Day).
• Volunteer opportunities during storms and repair generators.
• Fun Days and jeans‑day dress code.
• Product loan and discount programs.

We are an equal‑opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.