<p>Who we are</p> <p>At Lucas Milhaupt, we develop next-generation material joining solutions that are propelling industries forward. Join with the Best and become part of a team that rewards continuous improvement, celebrates diversity, and propels every team member toward personal and professional growth.</p> <p>We are passionate about creating a culture where every voice is heard, every idea considered, and every success celebrated. We believe in the power of career development and the transformative impact it can have on individuals and communities.</p> <p>As we continue to grow and expand as a company, we are actively seeking diverse and talented individuals who share our passion for material joining and want to be part of a journey that encourages personal and professional growth.</p> <p>At Lucas, our focus is on our people - the key to our success. Our goal is to offer employees an unparalleled experience, with opportunities to grow and improve the quality of their lives and the lives of their families.</p> <p>Is This For You?</p> <p>We are seeking an experienced Procurement Specialist with a strong background in sourcing metals, chemicals, services, and non-production items for manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate will be responsible for identifying, evaluating, and managing suppliers of raw materials, including ferrous and non-ferrous metals, specialty alloys, industrial chemicals, packaging materials, and MRO for both Lucas Milhaupt US sites in Cudahy, WI and Warwick, RI. This role is critical in ensuring the cost-effective, timely, and quality procurement of materials essential for production.</p> <p>How Would You Accomplish This?</p> <ul> <li>Promote Safety as the number one priority of all employees. </li><li>Sourcing and Purchasing </li><li>Identify and evaluate potential suppliers, ensuring quality, cost, and delivery standards meet company requirements. </li><li>Negotiate favorable terms and conditions with suppliers, including pricing, lead times, and payment terms. </li><li>Analyze market trends, price fluctuations, and availability of key raw materials to optimize purchasing decisions. </li><li>Establish and manage strategic supplier agreements to ensure quality, reliability, inventory, and cost-effectiveness. </li><li>Collaborate with engineering and production teams to align material specifications with manufacturing requirements. </li><li>Ensure compliance with industry standards, environmental regulations, and hazardous material handling protocols. </li><li>Supplier Management and Compliance </li><li>Conduct supplier audits, assessments, and performance evaluations to ensure adherence to quality and reliability standards. </li><li>Develop and maintain relationships with domestic and international suppliers to enhance sourcing flexibility in various commodities including metals and chemicals. </li><li>Implement risk mitigation strategies, including alternative supplier sourcing for critical materials. </li><li>Ensure compliance with ISO, OSHA, REACH, RoHS, and other regulatory standards related to procurement. </li><li>Inventory and Cost Optimization </li><li>Identify cost-saving opportunities within the procurement process and work to negotiate lower costs without sacrificing quality or reliability. </li><li>Monitor and maintain optimal inventory levels to prevent shortages while increasing inventory turns. </li><li>Utilize historical data, market trends, and production schedules to accurately forecast demand and inventory levels. </li><li>Collaborate with sales, production, and supply chain teams to align inventory with business needs. </li><li>Implement cost-saving initiatives through supplier negotiations, volume discounts, and supply chain optimization. </li><li>Work closely with the warehouse and production teams to ensure on-time material availability for manufacturing schedules. </li><li>Develop and track key procurement metrics, including cost savings, supplier performance, inventory, and lead times. </li><li>Collaboration and Reporting </li><li>Collaborate with engineering, R&D, and quality assurance teams to support new product development and raw material qualifications. </li><li>Prepare and present market analysis reports, price forecasts, and procurement strategies to senior management. </li><li>Stay informed on industry trends, trade policies, markets, and geopolitical factors affecting the supply chain. </li><li>Perform other duties as assigned. </li><li>Work Environment: This role typically works in an office environment and will require time on the manufacturing floor as well as occasional visits to manufacturing facilities or supplier locations, travel 10-15%. </li></ul> <p>What Are We Looking For?</p> <ul> <li>5+ years of procurement experience, ideally in metals, chemicals, or industrial raw materials sourcing within a manufacturing or industrial environment. </li><li>Experience in category management, including strategic sourcing and supplier management including strong negotiation and contract management skills. </li><li>In-depth knowledge of metals and chemical procurement regulations, safety standards, and handling procedures. </li><li>Strong knowledge of inventory management, best practices and demonstrated ability to increase inventory turns. </li><li>Proficient with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics). </li><li>An analytical mindset with experience in market analysis and cost modeling. </li><li>Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure. </li><li>Excellent communication, problem-solving, and supplier relationship management skills. </li><li>Preferred Qualifications </li><li>Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Materials Science, Chemistry, Metallurgy, Engineering, or a related field. </li><li>Certification in Procurement or Supply Chain Management (e.g., APICS, ASCM). </li><li>Experience with global sourcing, import/export regulations, and trade compliance. </li><li>Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or other cost-reduction and inventory reduction methodologies in procurement. </li></ul> <p>What We Offer:</p> <ul> <li>Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits </li><li>Paid holidays in additional to paid time off </li><li>December 24th - January 1st organizational holiday shut down </li><li>Short Term Disability at no cost to the employee </li><li>401 (k) plan with company matching </li><li>Quarterly and annual bonus plans </li><li>A supportive work environment built on teamwork, respect, integrity, and commitment </li><li>Diversity and Inclusion Employee Resource Group </li></ul> <p>EEO Statement:</p> <p>We offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We also provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state or local law. If you require assistance or reasonable accommodation in completing this application or during any aspect of the application process, please contact Human Resources at 414.769.6000.</p>