Inventory Analyst & Buyer

About FTC Solar Inc FTC Solar is a fast growing, global provider of solar tracker systems, technology, software, and engineering services We are as passionate about renewable energy as we are about our culture and values We want to attract likeminded individuals who live and breathe Integrity, Accountability, Innovation and Excellence Were humble enough to know that we dont know everything, so we love bold ideas that disrupt the status quo Basically, we dont want you to just fall in line! FTC Solar is committed to creating a culture of inclusion and diversity For us, this is not just a set of words or metrics It drives our culture, creativity, and future success We support our employees and foster an environment where new ideas and perspectives are celebrated and encouraged When our employees thrive, FTC Solar thrives We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status, Job Overview The Buyer will be responsible for managing the procurement process for materials This role requires a strong understanding of supply chain management, excellent negotiation skills, managing vendor relationships, and ensuring on time delivery by having a keen follow up with suppliers production, Key Responsibilities Procurement Management: Process purchase orders in a timely manner, ensuring accuracy in order quantities, specifications, and delivery timelines, Ensuring on time production per pull planning & monitoring plan vs actual, Co-ordinating with logistics for shipment pick up and sailing connections, On-time processing of vendor payments Vendor Relations Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors, Monitor supplier performance, ensuring compliance with contractual agreements, quality standards, and delivery schedules, Inventory Management Monitor inventory levels to ensure adequate stock levels while minimizing excess inventory and storage costs, Manage 3 rd party warehouse service providers to store inventory Maintain inventory accuracy at 3 rd party warehouses (India/China/US) Manage stock allocations in ERP Inventory liquidation Reports & Dashboard on inventory Quality Assurance Ensure that all procured materials meet the required quality standards and specifications, Collaborate with the quality control team to address any issues with product quality or supplier performance, Cost Control Review and analyze purchasing patterns to identify opportunities for cost savings or improvements in the procurement process, Work with cross-functional teams to identify and implement cost-saving initiatives, Cross-functional Collaboration Work closely with internal departments such as finance, logistics, engineering and operations to meet procurement needs and support organizational goals, Reporting And Documentation Prepare and present regular procurement reports to management, highlighting performance metrics, savings, and areas for improvement, Qualifications & Requirements Bachelors degree in engineering is preferred Proven experience of around 4 to 10 years in procurement or purchasing, preferably in the Solar, Automotive, EMS or manufacturing industries, Strong knowledge of solar tracker components or in steel highly desirable, Familiarity with ERP tools (e-g , SAP, BAAN, NetSuite) & strong knowledge in MRP process, Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, Ability to work independently and as part of a team, Certification in Lean six sigma is an added advantage Working Conditions & Expectations Have to be flexible to support late evenings upon handling US based suppliers and for critical meetings Should be open to travel to supplier facilities Immediate joining will be highly recommended, FTC Solar offers competitive wages, growth opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package,