Supply Chain Specialist in Maumelle, Arkansas at BEI Precision Systems & Space Company Inc

Job Summary:

The Supply Chain Specialist is responsible for developing and improving supplier performance to support BEI Precision’s operational and strategic supply chain objectives. This role works directly with suppliers to improve quality, delivery, capacity, and cost performance while ensuring a stable and resilient supply base.

The position will lead supplier improvement initiatives, manage underperforming suppliers, identify alternative sourcing options for high-risk materials, and support procurement activities when necessary. This role will also lead supply chain improvement projects focused on cost reduction, supplier performance, and supply continuity.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Supplier Performance Management

· Monitor supplier performance across key metrics including quality, on-time delivery, cost, and capacity.

· Work directly with poorly performing suppliers to implement corrective action plans and drive measurable improvements.

· Partner with Quality department to issue and manage SCARS, perform audits and non-conformance resolution.

· Support new product introduction (NPI) by ensuring suppliers are capable, qualified, and prepared to meet production ramp requirements.

· Conduct supplier visits and on-site assessments to evaluate operational capability, production processes, and quality systems.

· Collaborate with suppliers to resolve production constraints and improve reliability and throughput.

· Lead supplier qualification and onboarding activities (capabilities, process audits, FAI coordination with QA, etc.)

Supply Chain Risk Management

· Identify high-risk materials, supply disruptions, or single-source dependencies.

· Develop and implement strategies for dual sourcing and supplier diversification.

· Proactively evaluate the supply base to improve supply chain resiliency.

Procurement Support

· Support sourcing and procurement activities including supplier selection, pricing evaluation, and supplier negotiations as needed.

· Assist with purchase order management and supplier communication.

· Track supplier pricing and support cost management initiatives.

Cost Reduction Initiatives

· Lead projects focused on cost optimization.

· Analyze supplier spend data to identify opportunities for savings and improved commercial terms.

Supply Chain Project Management

· Lead or support supply chain improvement projects including supplier transitions, sourcing changes, and performance improvement initiatives.

· Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure successful execution of supply chain and procurement related projects.

Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

Education and experience:

· Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, Operations, or a related field is preferred

· 5+ years in purchasing or supply chain roles within a manufacturing environment may be considered in lieu of a degree

· Experience working with machining suppliers and electronic assembly processes is preferred

· Experience working with suppliers of technical, engineered, or regulated components preferred

· Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications

· Prior experience supporting production environments with complex or variable demand strongly preferred

· Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills

· Lean Six Sigma (preferred)

· ASQ training / certifications (preferred)

Knowledge Of:

· Aerospace and defense standards (AS9100, ISO 9001)

· Procurement and purchasing principles in a manufacturing environment

· Supply chain concepts including lead times, inventory management, and supplier capacity

· Contractual and commercial purchasing terms

· ERP/MRP systems and standard purchasing tools

· Basic cost analysis and pricing structures

· Supplier quality and delivery performance metrics

Ability To:

· Manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

· Communicate clearly and professionally with internal teams and external suppliers

· Negotiate effectively while maintaining positive supplier relationships

· Analyze data and make sound purchasing decisions with limited supervision

· Identify risks and proactively address potential supply disruptions

· Work cross-functionally to solve problems and support business objectives

· Operate with a high level of ownership, accountability, and attention to detail

Physical Requirements:

· Use of standard ESD protection & PPE in manufacturing environments

· Travel to supplier locations (approximately 20–40%) to conduct assessments, audits, and improvement initiatives.