New Product Development and Introduction Buyer

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as the primary procurement contact for NPDI projects, ensuring materials readiness for new product launches and engineering change implementations
• Collect and analyze data, prepare reports, and support process improvements related to materials transformation initiatives
• Source, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers to support NPDI project requirements
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions with suppliers to achieve cost targets for new components and assemblies
• Create, update, and track purchase orders to ensure timely delivery of prototype and production materials
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, Operations, and Program Management teams to align procurement timelines with project milestones
• Conduct supplier research and market analysis to identify optimal sourcing strategies for new product components
• Monitor and follow up on order statuses with suppliers, addressing any discrepancies or delays
• Support APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning) activities and supplier qualification processes
• Drive cost reduction initiatives during the product development phase to meet target costs
• Manage Bill of Materials (BOM) procurement activities from prototype through production launch
• Ensure compliance with Vertiv's procurement policies, procedures, and ethical standards
• Maintain accurate records in ERP systems (Oracle) for all NPDI-related purchasing activities
• Participate in design reviews and provide procurement input on component availability, lead times, and cost implications
• Support production transfer activities, including supplier transitions and logistics coordination

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, or related field
• 3–5 years of experience in procurement/buying, preferably in a manufacturing environment
• Experience supporting new product introduction (NPI/NPDI) processes
• Proficiency in ERP systems (Oracle preferred)
• Bilingual: English and Spanish (written and verbal)
• Strong negotiation and supplier management skills
• Knowledge of APQP, PPAP, and supplier qualification processes

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with should-cost modeling and total cost of ownership analysis
• Familiarity with engineering drawings and technical specifications
• Project management experience or certification
• Experience with production transfers and supplier transitions

COMPETENCIES

• Analytical Thinking – Ability to analyze complex data and make informed sourcing decisions
• Cross-Functional Collaboration – Effective communication across Engineering, Quality, and Operations teams
• Results Orientation – Drives projects to completion within timeline and budget constraints
• Supplier Relationship Management – Builds and maintains strong supplier partnerships
• Adaptability – Thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities
• Continuous Improvement – Proactively identifies opportunities to improve processes and reduce costs

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Office/manufacturing environment at the Mexicali, Baja California facility
• Occasional travel to supplier sites (domestic and international) – up to 15%
• Standard work schedule with flexibility required to support project deadlines