Strategic Sourcing Analyst - DEF and Fuel Systems
Inside the DTNA Procurement and Supply Department—one of the most international and strategically impactful organizations within Daimler Truck North America—you will drive sourcing decisions and optimize supplier performance across cost, quality, delivery, technology, and innovation. This role focuses on the strategic procurement of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) and Fuel Systems components for the TTGN 2-5 organization. You will lead supplier negotiations, develop commodity strategies, manage strategic supplier relationships, and collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Finance, and Product Strategy teams to support DTNA’s business objectives. The position offers visibility with senior leadership, opportunities to influence global sourcing strategies, and a direct impact on the future of Daimler Truck products and technologies. Employees receive annual training in professional negotiation tactics and internal DTNA functions, with exposure to senior executive management.
Responsibilities
- Negotiate or renew supplier agreements for critical materials, parts, components, tooling, or services for DTNA production, focusing on DEF and Fuel Systems with large strategic/global suppliers.
- Develop and execute long-term programs, including supplier commitments for production pricing that differentiate DTNA in the marketplace.
- Manage supplier relationships, including long-term strategic partners, to achieve DTNA cost goals.
- Negotiate long-term agreements, exclusive products, and services for DTNA.
- Evaluate alternative materials, methods, technologies, and suppliers as needed.
- Act as a mentor for team members and operational support staff.
- Lead strategic sourcing activities for DEF and Fuel Systems commodities and components.
- Develop and execute long-term commodity strategies aligned with DTNA and Daimler Truck global objectives.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with strategic suppliers while driving continuous improvement in cost, quality, delivery, and innovation.
- Lead commercial negotiations for long-term agreements, pricing programs, and supplier commitments.
- Identify and evaluate alternative suppliers, materials, technologies, and manufacturing methods to improve competitiveness and mitigate risk.
- Partner with Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing, Logistics, Finance, and Controlling teams to support sourcing decisions and product development initiatives.
- Monitor supplier performance metrics and business results through global procurement systems and reporting tools.
- Drive cost reduction initiatives and support achievement of annual purchasing targets.
- Lead cross-functional projects and sourcing initiatives from concept through execution.
- Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, and industry developments to support procurement strategies.
- Prepare and present business cases, sourcing recommendations, and executive-level presentations.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, procurement procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Finance, Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, strategic sourcing, supply chain management, or a related business or technical field.
- Experience negotiating commercial agreements, supplier contracts, pricing arrangements, and sourcing strategies.
- Ability to evaluate and select suppliers using analytical tools and business data.
- Knowledge of supplier manufacturing processes, materials, and technologies.
- Experience managing supplier relationships and improving supplier performance.
- Strong negotiation, problem-solving, and project management skills.
- Intermediate to advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
- Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrated ability to identify root causes and implement sustainable solutions to complex problems.
- Experience collaborating with cross-functional and global teams.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and support fact-based decision-making.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management.
- Knowledge of DEF systems, fuel systems, mechatronics, or related component technologies.
- Experience with SAP, procurement analytics tools, Tableau, Power BI, or similar systems.
- Experience developing and implementing global commodity strategies.
- Demonstrated success leading complex negotiations with global suppliers.
- Experience presenting sourcing strategies and business cases to executive leadership.
- Strong business acumen and understanding of market dynamics, cost drivers, and industry trends.
- Ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders without direct authority.
- Passion for continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence.
- Experience working with international teams and global supplier networks.
- Multi-language capabilities are a plus.
Benefits
- Annual bonus program.
- 401k company contribution with company match up to 6%, plus non-elective company contribution of 3–7% depending on age.
- Starting at 4 weeks paid vacation.
- 13+ calendar holidays.
- 8 weeks paid parental leave.
- Employee assistance program.
- Comprehensive healthcare plans and wellness programs.
- Onsite fitness (at some locations).
- Tuition assistance and volunteer paid time off.
- Short-term and long-term disability plans.
Pay
Starting salary range of $78,000 – $100,000 USD, dependent on knowledge, skills, and experience.
Schedule
Hybrid (4 days per week in-office / 1 day remote).
This position is open to applicants who can work in (or relocate to) Portland, OR. Relocation assistance is not available. Applicants must be legally authorized to work permanently in the U.S. at the time of application. This position is not open for visa sponsorship or to existing visa holders. Final candidates must successfully complete a criminal background check and may be required to complete a pre-employment drug screen.