Associate Planner Buyer - Xcel Energy

This position is posted as a hierarchy at the Asociate Planner Buyer or Planner Buyer level. Successful candidate(s) will be hired at the level that is commensurate with their skills and experience.

Position Summary

Coordinate materials/services procurement and fulfillment activities. Develop and implement local procurement strategies to achieve cost, schedule, and quality goals. Achieve inventory management, scheduling coordination, supplier management, and process improvement objectives. Support Planning and Purchasing organization as required.

Essential Responsibilities

• REQUISITIONS: Analyze materials/services requisitions to determine if fulfillment exists or is needed from Sourcing department. Process requisitions in ERP system in alignment with established procedures. Utilize master agreements and ensure material/service fulfillment aligns with category strategy. Receive mentorship and guidance from Planner Buyers and Sr Planner Buyers.
• BIDDING/AWARD PROCESS: Develop RFX bid packages for category buys and projects, with mentorship from Planner Buyers or Sr Planner Buyers. Assist with bid evaluation, analysis, and supplier selection. Identify spend/savings opportunities and assist with the development of Purchase Orders and contracts with approved suppliers in line with category strategy. Analyze and interpret statistical data.
• BUSINESS PARTNER RELATIONSHIPS: Develop relationships with BU partners to ensure understanding of business process. Ensure supply needs and field location questions are met. Facilitate communication between suppliers, BU partners, and Supply Chain staff. Collaborate with suppliers to mitigate construction risk for late materials. Manage logistics of job site deliveries. Basic understanding of use, form, fit, and function of materials. Train BU partners on Supply Chain processes as needed.
• SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIPS: Develop supplier relationships and provide timely response to questions. Utilize reporting tools and analysis to support material delivery, disposition, and returns. Monitor supplier activities and collaborate with Planning & Purchasing to improve the supplier relationship. May contribute to formal supplier performance meetings and lead continuous improvement efforts.
• SOURCING STRATEGY: Ensure adherence to sourcing policies, procedures, and maintenance of documentation and records. Drive demand to existing master agreements when possible.
• MATERIAL/DELIVERY MANAGEMENT: Partner with logistics staff and ensure efficient use of inventory and critical direct ship items. Monitor status of material orders/service contracts and expedite deliveries to meet schedule commitments.

Minimum Requirements (Associate)

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, technical/analytical field, or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or equivalent preferred.
• Excellent problem solving, organizational, teamwork, and communication skills.
• Up to 10% travel; driver's license required.

Preferred:

• One year of Supply Chain related experience.
• Experience in plant or utility operations preferred.
• Basic contract knowledge, negotiation, and project management skills preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP systems.

Minimum Requirements (Planner Buyer)

• Bachelors degree in supply chain management, Business, technical/analytical field, or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Three years of purchasing, logistics, or other relevant supply chain experience.
• Experience in plant or utility operations preferred.
• Contract and purchasing knowledge required.
• Procurement planning, negotiation, sourcing, and supplier relationships experience preferred.
• Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or equivalent preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
• Up to 10% travel; drivers license required.