about procurement specialist jobs
Procument specialists secure raw materials, building supplies, and find contractors to support engineering and construction projects. To be successful, you will need to have a strong background in a number of areas – business negotiation, supply chain, accounting, and management.
Companies are seeking procurement specialists in engineering who can effectively utilize project budgets and increase profitability. If you have the skills and experience for this role, please contact Randstad Canada to explore careers in your area.
about procurement specialist jobs
Procurement specialists work in an office environment during normal office hours, Monday to Friday. However, evening and overtime hours may be required to meet project deadlines. You will work closely with the management team, accounting department, and vendors to ensure your project has the resources it needs to succeed. Some travel may be required to visit job sites, suppliers, and contractors.
average procurement specialist salaries
The average annual salary for a procurement specialist in the engineering field is approximately $60,000 per year. Salaries for this position range from as low as $45,000 up to $90,000. Specialized skills or a degree in engineering can boost your earning potential. Performance bonuses and profit sharing may also be included in your compensation package. Experience in contract negotiation, contract management, and purchasing can increase your yearly salary.
your day to day tasks
Your role as a procurement specialist in engineering will vary based on many factors such as the company you work for and the type of project that has priority. Expect your day to be filled with a combination of tasks related to negotiation with vendors, processing invoices, placing orders, updating project budgets, and other project management tasks. Common tasks include:
- negotiate with suppliers on price and timelines
- fill supply requests and orders
- process invoices
- analyze supply contracts
- seek out vendor bids
- hire subcontractors to support projects
- develop relationships with suppliers and industry professionals
- track and monitor resource inventory
- address supply and inventory issues
where you can work
Procurement specialists commonly work for engineering firms or companies with close ties to engineering. Many find work in construction, manufacturing, research and development, and many other industries. Most roles are found in large Canadian cities with a strong business presence such as Toronto, the GTA, Ottawa, Montreal, and out west in Calgary and Edmonton.
what you bring to the table
Procurement specialists have a diverse skill set in business, engineering, negotiation and communication. You need to have expert knowledge of supply chains and know how to secure the products and resources your company needs. Some skills companies are looking for:
- contract management & negotiation
- materials requirement planning (MRP)
- procurement and sourcing
- inventory management and control
- customer relationship management (CRM) experience
- purchasing and cost management
- supply chain and logistics
- strong communication skills
- time management and organization
- finance and accounting skills
training and certifications
Most companies require procurement specialists to have a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, accounting, or engineering. A master’s degree in one of these areas will make you a more sought after job candidate.
Certification in procurement is an advantage. Candidates can get an edge over others by having one of the following certifications: certified procurement professional (CPP), certified professional purchasing manager (CPPM), or certified purchasing consultant (CPPC). Experience and/or knowledge in the engineering field is an asset.
where your career is headed
Procurement specialists can look forward to a variety of career paths. With the right amount of experience and a track record of success as a procurement specialist, you can move up to more senior roles in buying and procurement. Some of the roles you might anticipate include procurement manager and procurement director. Some professionals also make the jump to supply chain and logistics management and other construction-related careers.
Do you currently work as a procurement specialist? Looking to make a career move? Looking to get your career established in procurement within the engineering industry? Contact Randstad Canada today to get a career jump start.