Purchasing Manager

First Solar is a leader in the development and manufacturing of thin film solar modules used in grid-connected solar power plants. Our high growth and position in the renewable energy industry offers outstanding opportunities to individuals seeking an exciting work environment in one of the most important industries for the 21st century. Our culture is one where teamwork, continuous improvement, achievement of results, and environmental responsibility are core values. We are seeking new associates that are motivated to contribute their talents to making cost effective solar energy an important part of the world’s energy mix.Basic Job Functions  · Develop and manage an organization to provide purchasing support to First Solar Electric for ground mount and roof mount solar panel installation projects.· Provide leadership and direction to buyers.· Implement and enforce global purchasing processes and procedures at a local level.· Coordinate purchase of commodities to take advantage of quantity pricing.. Experience· 6 plus years experience managing purchasing organizations, preferably in a project based organization.· Demonstrated ability negotiating with sub-contractors on construction or similar projects.· Additional experience in electronics, power plants or related field is an advantage Education· Four year college degree in Purchasing or related fields or equivalent.· Advanced degree an advantage· Thorough knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within the Purchasing field. Required Skills:· Proven organizational skills – ability to prioritize.· Proven MRP and computer skills, including Microsoft Office or equivalent.· Demonstrated experience in supplier management and relationships.· Demonstrated experience in negotiating cost reductions and terms and conditions. Essential Functions & Responsibilities· Direct and supervise the procurement organization at First Solar Electric.· Manage and minimize material costs and control price/cost variances.· Implement and enforce Corporate purchasing policies and practices.· Ensure stock-outs are minimized while optimizing inventory turns.· Assure all purchasing documents are properly completed and departmental records are maintained.· Focus the organization to manage the primary relationships between First Solar Electric and its suppliers.· Utilizing MRP and other input to determine what items need to be ordered and in what quantity, place Purchase Orders with approved suppliers to meet manufacturing requirements.· As required, the organization expedites or de-expedites deliveries and changes scheduled deliveries and quantities in response to changes in production.· Negotiate pricing and other terms with suppliers of many items to improve the product cost, reduce First Solar Electric inventory, and improve cash flow.· Maintain effective communications levels and fosters team building.· Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.· A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected.· Assure adherence to all First Solar processes and procedures, including ISO9000, ISO14000, safety, housekeeping, etc.· May travel, including internationally, to critical suppliers and installation sites. Accountabilities:· Delay in installations due to run-out of materials is minimized.· Supplier relationships are maintained and improved with excellent communication.· Product cost and cash flow are positively impacted.· Failure to perform responsibilities will have a significant impact on First Solar Electric projects and, ultimately, financial performance.