Associate Category Specialist

About the role

Hypertherm Associates is seeking an Associate Category Specialist to support the Waterjet team in Kent, Washington or New Brighton, MN. The role involves assessing and mitigating risk, supporting new product introduction (NPI) activities, cultivating and executing cost savings initiatives, and managing projects.

Responsibilities

• Support the team in ensuring materials are delivered on time, at the best available price, and meet quality requirements
• Communicate with suppliers about pricing, deliveries, inventory changes, and product updates
• Gather and share supplier performance information to support sourcing decisions, team discussions, and follow-up actions
• Identify, track, and document cost-saving opportunities for current manufacturing and future projects
• Create and update purchase orders and related documentation by following established processes and guidance
• Support contract compliance, invoicing questions, and Engineering Change Order activities by reviewing information and tracking details with guidance
• Participate in cross-functional meetings and cost reduction projects by completing assigned tasks, gathering data, and supporting project follow-up

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s Degree in a related discipline with 2-3 years supply chain experience
• Proven analytical skills (cost/benefit analysis, make/buy decision-modeling, etc.)
• Strong written and verbal presentation and communication skills
• Proven experience in contract development and negotiation skills
• Strong attention to detail

Qualifications

• ISM and/or APICS certification
• Green/Black Belt Certified
• Knowledge of Lean/JIT Methodology
• Knowledge of Purchasing modules in Oracle or similar ERP system

Skills

• Supplier management
• Cost analysis
• Project management
• Contract negotiation
• Supplier relationship management

Benefits

Hypertherm Associates offers a competitive compensation package including a base salary range of $72,828.00 - $121,377.00 annually, profit-sharing, employee stock ownership, five days of community service time, and strong commitment to environmental stewardship. The company is also known for its no-layoff policy and equal opportunity employment practices.

Pay

$72,828.00-$121,377.00 Annual

Schedule

Full-time