Sourcing Manager

Job Title: Sourcing Manager (Bearings and Off-the-Shelf Components) Job Description
We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Sourcing Manager to support our supply chain operations with a focus on bearings and off-the-shelf (OTS) components, including cameras, cables, connectors, sensors, and related electronic and mechanical parts. In this role, you will serve as a key subject matter expert for capital equipment, spare parts, and services sourcing, owning the end-to-end procurement lifecycle from supplier identification and RFQ execution through contract award and delivery. You will play a critical role in ensuring timely procurement, robust supplier management, and optimized inventory for components used in manufacturing and fulfillment operations, while partnering closely with cross-functional teams to ensure material readiness and operational targets are consistently met.
Responsibilities
- Identify, evaluate, and qualify suppliers for bearings and OTS components such as cameras, cables, connectors, sensors, and related electronic and mechanical parts.
- Assess suppliers based on cost competitiveness, technical expertise, and business terms, including EAU, MOQ, and INCOTERM considerations.
- Maintain strong supplier relationships and negotiate pricing, lead times, delivery terms, and other commercial conditions to support business objectives.
- Conduct regular supplier performance reviews, maintain supplier scorecards, and implement corrective actions when performance falls below expectations.
- Manage RFQ (Request for Quote) processes from initiation through completion, ensuring accurate requirements, timely responses, and clear comparisons.
- Maintain and update technical specifications, datasheets, and documentation for bearings and OTS components to support accurate sourcing and usage.
- Support engineering teams with component selection, compatibility assessments, and design changes, ensuring components meet functional and quality requirements.
- Coordinate with suppliers to address technical issues, quality concerns, and design modifications, driving resolution and continuous improvement.
- Analyze component costs and identify opportunities for cost reduction, consolidation, and standardization across product lines and categories.
- Prepare cost comparisons and total cost of ownership (TCO) analyses to support sourcing decisions and strategic procurement initiatives.
- Monitor market trends and commodity pricing for bearings and electronic components, providing insights to inform sourcing strategies and budgeting.
- Support budget planning and forecasting for component purchases, ensuring alignment with demand plans and financial targets.
- Ensure suppliers meet established quality standards and compliance requirements, including documentation needed for audits and certifications.
- Track, investigate, and resolve quality issues related to components, working with suppliers and internal teams to implement corrective and preventive actions.
- Support and drive continuous improvement initiatives with suppliers to enhance quality, delivery performance, and cost efficiency.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in supply chain management systems and ERP platforms, including supplier data, pricing, and contract information.
- Generate regular reports on supplier performance, inventory status, and cost metrics to support data-driven decision-making.
- Coordinate closely with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Operations, Finance, and other partner groups to align sourcing activities with business needs.
- Participate in supply chain planning meetings and provide data-driven recommendations on sourcing strategies, inventory levels, and supplier risks.
- Serve as a subject matter expert for capital equipment, automation systems, tooling, spare parts, and services sourcing, providing guidance and best practices.
- Develop and refine sourcing frameworks, standard operating procedures, and operating mechanisms that scale with the organization.
- Support and mentor colleagues on sourcing processes, supplier management practices, and analytical tools to build organizational capability.
- Ensure material readiness for new and existing programs, including NPI (New Product Introduction) initiatives, by aligning sourcing timelines with project milestones.
Essential Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
- 5+ years of experience in supply chain, procurement, or supplier management roles.
- Strong knowledge of bearings, mechanical components, and electronic off-the-shelf (OTS) parts.
- Experience in manufacturing and supply chain environments, including familiarity with production and fulfillment operations.
- Proficiency with supply chain management systems and ERP software.
- Expert-level Excel skills, including advanced data analysis and reporting capabilities.
- Strong project management skills with the ability to plan, prioritize, and execute multiple initiatives simultaneously.
- Proven experience in strategic sourcing, negotiations, and supplier management.
- Experience with NPI (New Product Introduction or New Product Innovation) sourcing and supporting technical product development.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
- Strong communication and negotiation abilities, both written and verbal, to influence internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and operate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
- Competence in supplier relationship management, including performance review and continuous improvement.
- Experience conducting cost analysis, TCO evaluations, and using structured cost analysis methodologies.
- Technical component knowledge, including reading and understanding technical specifications and datasheets.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and build strong working relationships.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- MBA or Master's degree in supply chain management, operations, engineering, analytics, or a related field.
- Experience in automation, semiconductors, high-tech, or similar advanced manufacturing industries.
- Experience with automotive, robotics, or manufacturing supply chains.
- Knowledge of component sourcing for fulfillment or automation equipment.
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms.
- Six Sigma, Lean, or other continuous improvement certifications.
- Experience managing budgets with demonstrated cost optimization results.
- Experience working with cross-functional teams in a technical product development environment.
- Familiarity with supplier evaluation frameworks and structured cost analysis methodologies.
- Experience maintaining and managing technical component specifications and datasheets.
- Strong data analysis skills and ability to translate insights into actionable recommendations.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and improve sourcing frameworks, standard operating procedures, and governance mechanisms.
Work Environment
This role is primarily office-based within a factory-focused business group, supporting manufacturing and fulfillment operations at a facility referred to as Factory 1. The position follows regular business hours, providing a stable and predictable schedule. You will work extensively with supply chain management systems, ERP/MRP platforms, and advanced Excel tools to manage data, analyze costs, and monitor supplier performance. The environment emphasizes cross-functional collaboration with Engineering, Operations, Finance, and other teams, requiring regular participation in planning meetings and coordination across functions. Occasional travel to supplier sites may be required for evaluations, audits, or relationship management. The culture encourages continuous improvement, structured processes, and data-driven decision-making, while valuing both independent work and teamwork to achieve supply chain and operational goals.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of North Reading, MA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $58.00 - $60.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in North Reading,MA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Oct 7, 2026.

About Aston Carter

Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® Platinum Award winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.