Buyer – Senior (Indirect Purchasing)

San Diego, CA

Headquartered in San Diego, California, U.S.A., Solar Turbines Incorporated, a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc., is a leading manufacturer of industrial gas turbines with more than 11,800 units with over one billion operating hours in some 93 countries. Solar Turbines’ products include gas turbine engines (rated from 1590 to 20,500 horsepower), gas compressors, and gas turbine-powered compressor sets, mechanical-drive packages and generator sets (ranging from 1 to 15 megawatts). As the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Solar has a global network of offices and facilities to support customers with a variety of service products and programs as well as an experienced technical support team. We currently have an opening for a Senior Buyer, Indirect Purchasing.

Responsible for the procurement and management of assigned categories, including construction support using various contract types, dealing with general contractors and sub-contractors. Suppliers range from small businesses to large corporations operating on a global level. The incumbent should apply knowledge of supply chain management. This position requires utilization of sophisticated analytical skills and tools used to make complex short and long-term decisions.

This individual will interface with external suppliers as well as internal clients in the areas of Facilities and Maintenance, Manufacturing, Production Test, Quality, Engineering, Project Management, Environmental Health and Safety and Customer Services to assure timely and accurate supply of materials and services. Requires the ability to work closely with Project Managers and Accounts Payable to ensure timely processing of suppliers’ invoices. In addition, the individual/candidate will need to utilize analytical concepts, develop contingency plans, anticipate problems and provide solutions in a professional, logical and expedited manner.

6+ years purchasing experience in a construction / manufacturing environment required.
Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Manufacturing Technology or Engineering is required.
Experience in multi-year contracting and the forging of long-term supplier relationships required.
Negotiating skills are required.
Working knowledge of SPORT is a plus.
Solid communication skills, high initiative, assertiveness and organization skills.
Ability to interpret and negotiate contractual cost elements.
Requires the ability to provide situational leadership, excellent inter-personal skills, strong communication/presentation skills and competent personal computer skills.
Ability to work independently on assignments with minimal guidance.
Analytical, problem solving, and project leadership skills.
Ability to function well in a team/matrix environment.

C.P.M. certification desired.
Knowledge of 6 Sigma methodology desired.

Proven experience in construction support using various contract types, dealing with general contractors, as well as sub-contractor material and service trades. Proficient in preparing for and conducting formal bid walks, and contractor source selection process. Requires complete knowledge of construction principles, trade requirements, liens, and the ability to assist Facilities/Maintenance Project Managers with RFP Terms and Conditions, safety requirements and SOW specifications. Familiar with grounds and equipment maintenance contracts and terms. Strong background in value engineering with proven results in cost savings and avoidances. Ability to manage multiple contracts and projects.

Local candidates preferred.

Solar Turbines offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, vacation, 401k, pension, incentive bonus, tuition reimbursement and more.

Solar Turbines is an equal opportunity employer.
Solar Turbines conducts drug screens and background checks.

Please visit our website www.solarturbines.com for more information about our company.

Apply online: www.quick-apply.com and enter job code 22293011

March 26, 2008