Job Description

Job Summary:

The Procurement Category Buyer will be a key member of the newly formed Corporate Procurement team at Helix Traffic Solutions, supporting the company’s transformation towards a centralized and data-driven purchasing function. The Category Buyer is responsible for developing and executing strategic sourcing plans for products and services related to traffic management, including traffic signals, road safety equipment, signage, and intelligent traffic systems. This role involves managing supplier relationships, ensuring the cost-effective procurement of quality materials, and driving innovation within the category. The Category Buyer will also collaborate with internal stakeholders to align procurement activities with project requirements and business objectives. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of traffic industry products, excellent negotiation skills, and an ability to collaborate across departments to meet the company’s operational and project needs.

The role will report to the Director of Procurement, who oversees the strategic, operational, and tactical execution of the company's centralized purchasing capabilities. This Director role oversees the procurement and purchasing activities, ensuring that goods and services are sourced cost-effectively and efficiently – balancing cost, quality, and performance to enable our organization's value growth.

The procurement organization works cross-functionally with finance, sales operations, risk/safety, legal, and M&A Integration to stay aligned and help the organization stay ahead of needs. If you are a meticulous and strategic-minded procurement professional looking to make an impact in a high-growth organization, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity!

Key Responsibilities:

• Category Strategy: Work with the Category Manager to develop and execute procurement strategies tailored to the traffic industry, focusing on quality, cost savings, and supplier reliability.
• Sourcing and Procurement: Identify and evaluate suppliers for traffic-related products and services, including traffic lights, road signage, barriers, sensors, and traffic control systems.
• Supplier Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, ensuring that products meet quality standards, are delivered on time, and offer the best value.
• Procurement administration: Purchase order creation and tracking, supplier follow-up and issue resolution, invoice reconciliation and correction.
• Market Research: Stay up to date with industry trends, new product developments, and pricing fluctuations in the traffic and road safety sectors.
• Compliance and Standards: Ensure all traffic-related products meet local, state, and federal safety regulations, including industry standards for safety and environmental sustainability.
• Cost Management: Identify cost-saving opportunities through supplier negotiations, alternative sourcing, and process improvements without compromising quality or compliance.
• Inventory and Demand Planning: Collaborate with internal teams such as project management and operations to forecast demand and maintain optimal inventory levels for traffic-related products.
• Supplier Performance: Monitor supplier performance through KPIs, addressing any issues related to quality, delivery, or cost, and working with suppliers on corrective actions.
• Reporting: Provide regular reports on purchasing activities, supplier performance, category spending, and cost-saving initiatives to senior management.
• Technology Utilization: Leverage procurement software and systems to track purchases, manage contracts, and optimize the procurement process.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with engineering, project management, and logistics teams to align purchasing activities with project timelines and specifications.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field; equivalent professional experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in procurement or category management, preferably within the traffic or infrastructure industry.
• Strong knowledge of traffic industry products and suppliers, including traffic control devices, safety equipment, and traffic management technologies.
• Demonstrated expertise in negotiation and contract management.
• Ability to analyze market trends and supplier performance to drive better procurement decisions.
• Familiarity with industry regulations and standards for traffic safety and compliance (e.g., MUTCD, DOT requirements).
• Strong communication and relationship management skills.
• Proficiency in procurement software and tools (e.g., Oracle NetSuite, Ariba)
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Why Join Helix

• Be a part of a fast-growing company that is shaping the future of traffic management and roadway safety.
• Opportunity to play a pivotal role in building a corporate-wide purchasing function in a dynamic, M&A-driven environment.
• Work with a team of industry professionals committed to operational excellence and innovation.
• Competitive salary, benefits, and professional growth opportunities.

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