Sr. Buyer/Planner - Key Components

Job Req ID: 28636

About Supermicro:

Supermicro® is a Top Tier provider of advanced server, storage, and networking solutions for Data Center, Cloud Computing, Enterprise IT, Hadoop/ Big Data, Hyperscale, HPC and IoT/Embedded customers worldwide. We are the #5 fastest growing company among the Silicon Valley Top 50 technology firms. Our unprecedented global expansion has provided us with the opportunity to offer a large number of new positions to the technology community. We seek talented, passionate, and committed engineers, technologists, and business leaders to join us.
 

Job Summary:

• Drive Supply Chain Efficiency: Your expertise in procurement and planning will be instrumental in maintaining a stable and efficient supply chain, ensuring Supermicro can meet customer demands effectively.
• Support Innovation & Product Development: You will work closely with Product Management and Engineering to support new product development (NPI) and secure key components for advanced technology solutions.
• Optimize Inventory & Vendor Relations: As a Senior Buyer/Planner, you will play a key role in managing inventory, negotiating with global suppliers, and ensuring long-term component availability.
• Lead Strategic Sourcing Initiatives: Identify new suppliers, evaluate supplier capabilities, conduct cost analysis, and implement sourcing strategies that improve cost, quality, delivery, and supply resilience.
• Drive Cost Reduction Programs: Partner with suppliers and internal stakeholders to execute cost-saving initiatives through price negotiations, alternative sourcing, value engineering,and supplier performance improvements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Procurement & Vendor Management:

• Collaborate with PM & Engineering teams to support new product development (NPI).
• Manage procurement processes, ensuring the timely acquisition of high-quality materials and components.
• Source, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors—especially in Asia—to obtain competitive pricing and terms.
• Analyze supplier quotations based on product specifications and market conditions.
• Conduct supplier business reviews and maintain strong strategic supplier relationships.
• Develop alternate and secondary supplier options to strengthen supply chain resilience.
• Monitor market trends, commodity pricing, and industry developments to proactively address supply challenges.

Supply Chain Planning & Inventory Management:

• Plan and monitor inventory levels to align with customer requirements and company targets.
• Develop and implement strategies to manage long lead-time and unique components effectively.
• Prepare and analyze inventory and aging reports to optimize supply chain efficiency.
• Support demand planning and forecast reviews with suppliers to ensure adequate supply capacity.
• Monitor supplier lead times, production capacity, and delivery commitments to minimize supply disruptions

Process Improvement & Strategic Planning:

• Identify opportunities to improve procurement accuracy and streamline supply chain processes.
• Implement best practices to optimize resource utilization and cost savings.
•  Support cross-functional teams in forecasting, demand planning, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Lead supplier cost reduction initiatives through commercial negotiations, alternative sourcing, and value engineering.
• Develop sourcing risk mitigation plans for sole-source and long lead-time components.
• Track and report sourcing KPIs, including cost savings, supplier performance, on-time delivery, and sourcing cycle time.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Materials Management, Manufacturing, or a related discipline preferred.
• 8+ years of experience in materials management, procurement, or supply chain operations.
• Strong ability to work in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities with keen attention to detail.
• Demonstrated experience in vendor negotiations, particularly with suppliers in Asia.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, with a problem-solving mindset.
• Proficiency in ERP applications and Microsoft Office tools such as SAP, Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint

Salary Range

$115,000 - $145,000 

The salary offered will depend on several factors, including your location, level, education, training, specific skills, years of experience, and comparison to other employees already in this role. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation, such as participation in bonus and equity award programs.

EEO Statement

Supermicro is an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity in our employee population. It is the policy of Supermicro to provide equal opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or special disabled veteran, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.