Sourcing Lead

Role Summary/Purpose

The Sourcing Lead supports day-to-day manufacturing operations by ensuring timely and cost-effective procurement of materials, tooling, and services. This role is highly hands-on, balancing tactical purchasing with supplier coordination and problem-solving. The Sourcing Lead works closely with Operations, Engineering, and Quality to resolve supply chain challenges, reduce downtime, and improve overall product flow in a low-volume, high-mix production environment.

Essential Responsibilities:

- Source and purchase raw materials, components, and subcontracted services to support production schedules, inventory goals, and objectives.

- Manage daily supplier communications, ensuring on-time delivery, accurate quantities, inventory accuracy, andquality compliance.

- Resolve material shortages, expedite orders, and coordinate supply chain alternatives to keep production running and inventory turns to expected targets.

- Partner with Engineering, Quality, and Production to source materials for prototypes, custom builds, and new product launches.

- Negotiate pricing and terms with suppliers to reduce costs while maintaining reliability.

- Maintain accurate data in ERP/MRP systems, including lead times, lot sizes, minimum balances, pricing, and supplier performance.

- Support continuous improvement initiatives in supply chain processes and supplier performance.

- Monitor market conditions, commodity pricing, and risks to anticipate cost and availability issues.

Qualifications/Requirements:

- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or equivalent experience.

- 3–7 years of sourcing/purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment.

- Strong hands-on problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced, changing environment.

- Knowledge of machining, welding, fabrication, and custom manufacturing supply bases a plus.

- Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office.

- Strong communication, negotiation, and relationship management skills.

Key Competencies

- Strategic thinker with ability to execute tactically.

- Hands-on problem solver who thrives in a dynamic environment.

- Strong financial and analytical acumen.

- Collaborative and influential across cross-functional teams.

- Results-driven with focus on cost, quality, and delivery performance.

- Strong computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Power BI, Power Apps, Teams, etc.)