Supply Chain Associate II

Summary

We are seeking a proactive and experienced Supply Chain Specialist to support purchasing and inventory management at our New Horizon facility in Frederick, Maryland. This role is crucial in ensuring efficient and cost-effective procurement of goods and services and the optimal management of inventory to support manufacturing and business needs. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in both purchasing and inventory management, particularly within a biotech or regulated environment.

Principal Duties/Responsibilities

• Support and Apply Procurement Strategies: Employ procurement strategies that align with organizational goals, ensuring cost-effective and timely acquisition of goods and services to support manufacturing and operational activities.
• End-to-End Purchasing Management: Support the entire purchasing process, including supplier identification, evaluation, negotiation, contract management, and supplier relationship management to ensure reliable supply and quality.
• Inventory Management and Optimization: Support efforts to maintain accurate inventory records using inventory management systems, ensuring optimal stock levels to prevent shortages or overstock situations. Apply and implement strategies to optimize inventory turnover while minimizing carrying costs.
• Supplier Relationship and Performance Management: Participate in the building and maintenance of strong relationships with key suppliers, and monitor supplier performance to ensure reliability, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with production, R&D, quality assurance, and finance teams to support purchasing and inventory strategies with production schedules and business goals. Ensure that material availability meets the demands of the manufacturing process.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure all purchasing and inventory activities comply with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and company policies. Mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions by developing contingency plans and maintaining strong supplier networks.
• Reporting and Analysis: Support and coordinate regular reporting on purchasing activities, inventory levels, cost savings, supplier performance, and other key metrics.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements within purchasing and inventory management to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall supply chain performance.
• Assist and support manufacturing with kitting and issuing materials.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 0-2 years of experience in purchasing and inventory management, preferably in the biotech or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven experience supporting procurement strategies and inventory management in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills with a focus on supplier management.
• Familiarity with inventory management systems, procurement software, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Familiarity of procurement best practices, inventory optimization techniques, and supplier evaluation methods.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.

Work Environment

The position involves hands-on work in both office and warehouse environments, requiring constant attention to safety, environmental, and health concerns. The role may require handling hazardous materials in the laboratory, with strict adherence to company policies and safety protocols. The employee will be required to wear appropriate safety equipment, including eye protection, gloves, shoes, and a lab coat. The position may involve extended periods of standing and physical activity related to inventory management.

Cartesian is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an environment in which all employees are treated fairly without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, genetic information, military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.