R&D Support Specialist

About the role

The R&D Operations Senior Specialist coordinates purchasing, invoicing, test-material procurement, calibration services, vendor administration, and operational records for YCNA Research & Development at YDCA. The role works across R&D, Finance, suppliers, and service providers to ensure timely support, accurate documentation, and audit readiness.

Responsibilities

• Manage purchase requisitions, purchase orders, goods receipts, invoices, and supporting records for R&D services, equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Monitor cost, delivery, payment, and transaction status; resolve discrepancies with internal stakeholders and suppliers.
• Prepare the monthly YOTHA invoice package and maintain audit-ready financial documentation.
• Coordinate purchasing, receipt, shipment, and allocation of production tires, competitor tires, wheels, and other test materials.
• Track availability and delivery timing, address supply risks, and confirm materials are available for planned testing.
• Coordinate external equipment calibration, including quotations, purchase orders, scheduling, shipment, certificates, GageTrak entries, and due-date follow-up.
• Coordinate supplier onboarding, documentation, records, contacts, and administrative issue resolution.
• Maintain work instructions, process maps, trackers, templates, and operational reports.
• Support process improvements and special projects, protect confidential information, and perform other duties as assigned.
• Perform other tasks as assigned by management.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong organization, prioritization, problem-solving, communication, and follow-through.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365; SAP experience strongly preferred and GageTrak experience preferred.
• Working knowledge of purchasing, receiving, invoicing, vendor administration, and controlled records.
• Ability to interpret business and technical documents, maintain accurate data, collaborate cross-functionally, and improve processes.

Education and Experience

• Associate degree in business, supply chain, operations, engineering technology, or a related field required; bachelor’s degree preferred. Equivalent relevant experience may be considered.
• Five or more years of relevant experience in operations coordination, procurement, purchasing, accounts payable, supplier administration, laboratory support, or a related function.
• Experience supporting engineering, R&D, testing, laboratory, manufacturing, or quality environment preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Primarily office-based at YDCA with regular interaction in warehouse, laboratory, and equipment areas.
• Occasional material handling and business travel may be required.
• Must follow applicable safety, quality, confidentiality, and information-security requirements.