The Prototype Buyer is a critical member of our New Product Introduction (NPI) and Engineering teams. This role is responsible for the end-to-end procurement of prototype components, tooling, and services required for research, development, and validation testing. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with deep experience in strategic sourcing, particularly within a technical manufacturing environment and with a strong focus on the Chinese supply base. You will act as the vital link between our engineers and the global supply market, ensuring the timely, cost-effective, and quality-driven acquisition of complex parts.
Manage the entire prototype purchasing lifecycle: from requisition to delivery, including RFQ, supplier selection, negotiation, purchase order placement, and expediting.
Source and qualify new suppliers for prototype and low-volume production parts, with an emphasis on identifying capable partners in China, as well as the US, Mexico, Europe, Japan, and Southeast Asia.
Procure a wide variety of components, including raw materials, machined parts, castings, electronics, and complex assemblies specific to e-powertrain, fuel cells, inverters, and motors et al.
Source and manage suppliers for specialized services such as rapid prototyping (3D printing, CNC machining).
Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with key proto suppliers and GBE buyers serving as the primary point of contact.
Conduct supplier assessments (virtual or on-site as needed) to evaluate technical capability, quality systems, and capacity for prototype work.
Work closely with Engineering and Quality teams to resolve APQP technical issues, clarify specifications, and ensure supplier comprehension of unique prototype requirements.
Drive quick resolution of any quality non-conformances (e.g., deviations, non-standard parts) to avoid project delays.
Negotiate favorable pricing, payment terms, and lead times for prototype orders, understanding the cost drivers of low-volume, high-complexity parts.
Aggressively track and expedite orders to meet critical project milestones and testing schedules. Proactively communicate risks and delays to the project team.
Maintain accurate data within the ERP/MRP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and manage the procurement documentation pack for each prototype project.
Provide regular updates on procurement status, costs, and supplier performance to cross-functional teams and management.
Partner directly with Proto Planner, Design Engineers, R&D teams and Project Managers to understand technical requirements and provide sourcing input during the design phase.
Collaborate with the GBE Procurement team to ensure a smooth transition from prototype sourcing to production sourcing.
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
2+ years of experience in a procurement, buying, or strategic sourcing role, with a significant focus on prototype or low-volume procurement in a manufacturing environment.
Proven experience and success in sourcing from Chinese suppliers. Must be comfortable with cross-cultural business practices, time zones, and language barriers. (Mandarin language skills are a significant plus).
Demonstrated experience with mechanical, electro-mechanical, or electronic components.
Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a sense of urgency to meet tight deadlines.
Proficient with MS Office Suite and ERP/MRP systems.
Preferred:
Experience in the automotive, aerospace, or energy sectors.
Technical knowledge of one or more of: turbo machinery, fuel cell systems, power electronics (inverters), or electric motors.
Experience with international logistics, Incoterms, and import/export processes.
Familiarity with quality processes like APQP, PPAP, and DFM/DFA as they relate to prototyping.
Competencies:
Results-Driven & Proactive: Thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes initiative to remove obstacles.
Technical Aptitude: Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
Supplier Influencer: Ability to build rapport and motivate suppliers to prioritize our needs.
Excellent Communicator: Clear and concise in both written and verbal communication across all levels of the organization and with external partners.
Organized & Detail-Oriented: Manages multiple projects simultaneously without compromising accuracy.
Garrett Motion, a technology innovator and leader, has been serving customers globally for 70 years. Our mission is to deliver solutions that reduce emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and support zero-emission vehicles. We are passionate about innovating for mobility and beyond. Garrett’s technologies enable sustainable automotive and industry transformation.
Our portfolio includes turbochargers, electric turbos (E-Turbo) and electric compressors (E-Compressor) for both ICE and hybrid powertrains. In the zero-emissions vehicle category, the company offers fuel cell compressors for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs) as well as electric propulsion and thermal management systems for battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
We take pride in our extensive infrastructure, boasting five R&D centers, 13 manufacturing sites, and a team of 9,300 professionals spread across over 20 countries.
