Proto Procurement Leader

Company Overview

Garrett is a leading innovator in the advanced automotive and energy sectors, designing and manufacturing cutting-edge products including turbochargers, fuel cells, inverters, and electric motors. Our commitment to engineering excellence and rapid innovation demands a world-class supply chain. We are seeking a skilled and dynamic Prototype Buyer to join our team and play a pivotal role in bringing our next-generation technologies from concept to reality.

Position Summary

The Prototype Buyer is a critical member of our New Product Introduction (NPI) and Engineering teams. This role is responsible for the end-to-end procurement of prototype components, tooling, and services required for research, development, and validation testing. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with deep experience in strategic sourcing, particularly within a technical manufacturing environment and with a strong focus on the Chinese supply base. You will act as the vital link between our engineers and the global supply market, ensuring the timely, cost-effective, and quality-driven acquisition of complex parts.

Key Responsibilities

Sourcing & Procurement:

• Manage the entire prototype purchasing lifecycle: from requisition to delivery, including RFQ, supplier selection, negotiation, purchase order placement, and expediting.
• Source and qualify new suppliers for prototype and low-volume production parts, with an emphasis on identifying capable partners in China, as well as the US, Mexico, Europe, Japan, and Southeast Asia.
• Procure a wide variety of components, including raw materials, machined parts, castings, electronics, and complex assemblies specific to turbochargers, fuel cells, inverters, and motors et al.
• Source and manage suppliers for specialized services such as rapid prototyping (3D printing, CNC machining), laboratory testing, and validation services.

Supplier Relationship & Quality Management:

• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with key prototype suppliers, serving as the primary point of contact.
• Conduct supplier assessments (virtual or on-site as needed) to evaluate technical capability, quality systems, and capacity for prototype work.
• Work closely with Engineering and Quality teams to resolve APQP technical issues, clarify specifications, and ensure supplier comprehension of unique prototype requirements.
• Drive quick resolution of any quality non-conformances (e.g., deviations, non-standard parts) to avoid project delays.

Cost, Timing, & Data Management:

• Negotiate favorable pricing, payment terms, and lead times for prototype orders, understanding the cost drivers of low-volume, high-complexity parts.
• Aggressively track and expedite orders to meet critical project milestones and testing schedules. Proactively communicate risks and delays to the project team.
• Maintain accurate data within the ERP/MRP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and manage the procurement documentation pack for each prototype project.
• Provide regular updates on procurement status, costs, and supplier performance to cross-functional teams and management.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Partner directly with Proto Planner, Design Engineers, R&D teams, and Project Managers to understand technical requirements and provide sourcing input during the design phase.
• Collaborate with the GBE Procurement team to ensure a smooth transition from prototype sourcing to production sourcing.

Qualifications And Experience

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in a procurement, buying, or strategic sourcing role, with a significant focus on prototype or low-volume procurement in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience and success in sourcing from Chinese suppliers. Must be comfortable with cross-cultural business practices, time zones, and language barriers. (Mandarin language skills are a significant plus).
• Demonstrated experience with mechanical, electro-mechanical, or electronic components.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Prefer to have team leader experience
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a sense of urgency to meet tight deadlines.
• Proficient with MS Office Suite and ERP/MRP systems.

Preferred:

• Experience in the automotive, aerospace, or energy sectors.
• Technical knowledge of one or more of: turbo machinery, fuel cell systems, power electronics (inverters), or electric motors.
• Experience with international logistics, Incoterms, and import/export processes.
• Familiarity with quality processes like APQP, PPAP, and DFM/DFA as they relate to prototyping.

Competencies

• Results-Driven & Proactive: Thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes initiative to remove obstacles.
• Technical Aptitude: Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Supplier Influencer: Ability to build rapport and motivate suppliers to prioritize our needs.
• Excellent Communicator: Clear and concise in both written and verbal communication across all levels of the organization and with external partners.
• Organized & Detail-Oriented: Manages multiple projects simultaneously without compromising accuracy.

What We Offer

• A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• The opportunity to work on groundbreaking technology in a fast-growing industry.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Professional development and growth opportunities.