NPI Buyer

Unigen, headquartered in Newark, California, is a trusted partner for businesses seeking to power their next generation of products. Founded in 1991, we've grown into a leading provider of electronics manufacturing services (EMS), offering a comprehensive suite of solutions from design and manufacturing to supply chain management. From advanced memory modules to high-density storage devices, our solutions are engineered to meet the demanding needs of today's technology landscape. Our commitment to quality and innovation ensures that our partners have the tools they need to succeed.

At Unigen, you'll have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects and make a real difference. Working at Unigen means you'll be surrounded by other innovative companies, have access to top talent, and be close to world-class resources. We offer competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, including 401(k) matching. This location, combined with our benefits, provides a unique advantage for those looking to thrive in the semiconductor industry.

Job Title: NPI Buyer

Department: Procurement

Department Head: Kirk Knudsen, VP of Global Supply Chain and Logistics

Job Overview:

The NPI Buyer analyzes and makes purchase decisions, coordinates purchasing activities with internal groups and suppliers, and ensures the accuracy and integrity of procurement business system data. This role will also be responsible for cost control and procurement operations to align with company objectives. The NPI Buyer reports directly to VP of Global Supply Chain and Logistics and is based at the Unigen Headquarters in Newark, CA.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

Purchase materials, using engineering and production schedules to maintain inventory at planned levels:

• Gather quotations.
• Examine bids and make awards.
• Manage inventory according to established guidelines and targets.
• Generate and issue purchase orders (PO) and maintain PO data accuracy.

Monitor and control cost, schedule, and scope of assigned contracts to assure best quality at best value:

• Coordinate excess for Part Number Change (PNC) and/or negotiate buy-back to suppliers.
• Manage RFQ for new business and revise existing OEM/CM price monthly/quarterly.
• Manage key component replacement and new revision, shortage allocation, and risk-buy.
• Recommend cost-saving proposals including make-versus-buy analysis and alternative sourcing.

Monitor, coordinate, and communicate the movement of materials through the production cycle to determine required materials purchases:

• Review product roadmap quarterly with engineers and suppliers, coordinate SPCN, EOL process, and LTB activities.
• Analyze floor stock min/max program to address shortages with suppliers.
• Communicate forecast/demand analysis internally and externally.
• Monitor and, if necessary, escalate critical inbound deliveries.

Evaluate vendor reliability and develop new supply sources:

• Interface and negotiate with vendors.
• Evaluate vendor performance and qualify new vendors.

Support New Product Introduction (NPI) procurement activities:

• Collaborate with engineering and project teams to identify and procure materials for prototypes and pilot builds.
• Work with suppliers to source and validate new components required for NPI projects.
• Ensure smooth transition of NPI materials from development to production by managing supply chain readiness.
• Analyze cost impacts and recommend cost-saving opportunities during the NPI phase.

Manage all other aspects of the procurement process:

• Manage consumables such as packaging and labeling.
• Manage MRB and coordinate returns with suppliers via RMA.
• Review and negotiate expedited freight charges.
• Follow up with Accounts Payable to resolve payment issues.

Key Tools and Technology:

Document and presentation software: Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, Adobe Acrobat

Document control software: Agile

Enterprise Resource Planning software: Oracle

Data mining, analysis, and reporting software: Portus

Required Education and Experience:

BS/BA degree or equivalent experience

Minimum 3 years of material planning experience within a PCBA manufacturing environment