Career

Supply Chain Manager

03.01.2025

At PALFINGER, we have been lifting people and goods to a new level for over 90 years - with a pioneering and passionate spirit. As a global technology and engineering company, we are the world's leading manufacturer and supplier of innovative crane and lifting solutions. Our success is based on the tireless efforts of our approximately 12,700 employees, who contribute their ideas and energy to our vision. With us, you can expect a dynamic working environment full of opportunities for personal and professional development. Become part of our team and start your career at PALFINGER.

PALFINGER is seeking a highly skilled and experienced individual within to join our team as a Supply Chain Manager. This position combines technical expertise, supply chain strategy, and vendor relationship management to optimize the company’s operations. The role will focus on integrating engineering principles into supply chain processes, managing highly configurable production environments, leading vendor transitions from make to buy, and fostering strategic partnerships. The ideal candidate will ensure operational excellence, team collaboration, and alignment with corporate goals while driving continuous improvement initiatives. The successful candidate will be the main point of contact with the vendors and aligning with sales and operations to meet purchasing requirements.

Your Responsibilites

Convert sales expectations from Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) purchasing orders into vendor requirements. Forecast and align purchase requests with sales projections and operational needs, ensuring accurate and timely vendor supply.
Ensure the vendor delivers finished goods on schedule by providing timely and accurate inputs, while maintaining oversight of vendor operations to ensure alignment with quality, timeline, and operational standards. Serve as the main point of contact with the vendor, interacting with all levels of the vendor's organization daily.
Develop and manage accurate demand forecasts aligned with Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) to support vendor production of highly configurable finished goods with up to 50,000 configurations. Translate forecasts into detailed purchasing requests. Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to synchronize forecasting with inventory levels, material availability, and production schedules on both sides. Monitor vendor adherence to forecasted demand and address deviations to prevent supply chain disruptions and ensure on-time delivery of finished goods.
Ensure compliance with contractual obligations by monitoring vendor adherence to delivery schedules, quality standards, and agreed lead times. Proactively mitigate risks of penalties by identifying and addressing potential delays, quality issues, or supply chain disruptions in advance.
Demonstrate executive presence to manage different priorities and gain buy-in from middle and lower management on both sides. Regularly engage with vendor teams on-site, ensuring alignment and hands-on support for daily operations.
Manage the vendor relationship for the duration of projects, ensuring collaboration and the venture success.
Provide technical guidance and support to vendors in the production of highly configurable finished goods, ensuring adherence to engineering standards and specifications.
Implement and oversee quality control processes to ensure that all products meet the required engineering and quality standards. Conduct regular audits and inspections of vendor facilities to ensure compliance.
Proficiency in industrial engineering methods, statistical analysis, and supply chain management tools. Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and drive informed decisions in optimizing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality. Implement best practices in production and supply chain management.
Develop and maintain detailed technical documentation, including engineering drawings, specifications, and process instructions. Ensure that all documentation is up-to-date and accessible to relevant stakeholders.
Address technical issues and challenges that arise during production, working closely with vendors to identify root causes and implement effective solutions. Provide technical support and troubleshooting as needed.
Ensure that all products and processes comply with relevant industry standards, regulations, and certifications. Stay updated on changes in regulatory requirements and ensure that vendors are informed and compliant.

Your Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in any field; degrees in Production, Engineering, or Supply Chain preferred but not required.
At least 5 years of experience in supply chain management, and operations.
Experience in fabrication, manufacturing, or automotive.
Strong background in supply chain and operations management, Sales, and Operations Planning (S&OP) and execution, project management (certifications not required).
Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and foster collaboration. Strong organizational and creative problem-solving skills. Effective in negotiations and conflict resolution.
Experience managing and coaching a team, providing feedback, establishing goals and KPIs.
Proficiency in English and Spanish.
Remote work can be based in Southern California or Southern Arizona with the ability to travel to Mexicali, Mexico and Cerritos, California, frequently.

What We Offer

Competitive compensation and performance rewards
Comprehensive Benefits package with flexible options
Opportunity for continuous learning and career growth
Environment of Respect, Integrity, Openness, Inclusion and Support

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vet/Disabled

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