Buyer

Job Title: Procurement SpecialistJob DescriptionWe are seeking a highly experienced individual to play a strategic role in sourcing, supplier management, and cost optimization for engineered components and materials. This role is an experienced individual contributor with significant autonomy and influence, responsible for driving supplier performance, managing risk, and supporting new product and design initiatives in a technically complex manufacturing environment. This position offers the opportunity to make a direct, measurable impact on cost, supply continuity, and product quality while partnering closely with engineering, quality, and production teams.Responsibilities+ Drive supplier performance and manage risk in sourcing engineered components and materials.+ Support new product and design initiatives in a technically complex manufacturing environment.+ Make strategic sourcing decisions and lead negotiations to affect margins, supply continuity, and business performance.+ Collaborate daily with engineering, quality, and production teams to ensure high visibility and influence.+ Operate independently while being supported by leadership that values professional judgment and expertise.+ Influence outcomes and mentor junior buyers without formal people-management responsibilities.Essential Skills+ 5-10 years of relevant supply chain, purchasing, or sourcing experience in a technical or manufacturing setting.+ Strong analytical and negotiation capability.+ Proficiency in sourcing, procurement, supplier management, negotiation, and financial analysis.+ Technical credibility in a manufacturing environment.+ Ability to influence suppliers and internal stakeholders.+ Integrity, professionalism, and accountability.Additional Skills & Qualifications+ Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, cost models, scenario analysis).+ ERP experience (SAP preferred).+ Market intelligence and research skills.+ Project management skills.+ Change management and continuous improvement mindset.+ Bachelor's degree required in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field.+ Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.+ Supply chain or procurement certifications (e.g., CPSM, CPIM) are considered a plus.Work EnvironmentThis role operates in a professional office and engineering-focused environment with close collaboration across Purchasing, Engineering, Quality, and Production teams. The culture values expertise, accountability, and continuous improvement, with an emphasis on data-driven decision-making and respectful, solution-oriented collaboration. Employees are trusted to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and raise issues proactively. Integrity, professionalism, and adherence to established processes are core expectations. The dress code is business casual in the office environment, with occasional practical attire when supporting engineering or supplier-related activities. The role follows standard business hours, typically Monday through Friday, with a predictable schedule and minimal overtime. Minimal travel (0-5%) is required, primarily supplier or business-related as needed. The role is primarily office-based with frequent computer use.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Oxnard, CA.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $34.00 - $40.00/hr.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Oxnard,CA.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Apr 3, 2026.About Aston Carter:Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing double diamond winner for both client and talent service.The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com (%20astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com) for other accommodation options.