Commodity Manager

Junior Commodity Manager (Chemical / Laboratory)Location: Mesa, AZ (Hybrid)Employment Type: Direct hire (temp-to-hire also considered)Travel: Yes (primarily domestic)A U. S.-based advanced materials and specialty manufacturing company supporting high-tech and semiconductor-related industries is seeking a Junior Commodity Manager to join its supply chain organization. For a top-tier candidate, the company is open to leveling this role as a Senior Commodity Manager based on experience and demonstrated capability. This is a high-visibility, ownership-driven role with meaningful supplier interaction, negotiation responsibility, and the opportunity to grow into broader commodity leadership.

The RoleYou will own and manage a Chemical & Laboratory commodity portfolio supporting manufacturing, R&D, and operational environments. The role emphasizes supplier strategy, cost management, quality, and continuity of supply, with real decision-making authority. Key scope includes:~$4–6M annual spend~80 active suppliers (primarily domestic)Categories include laboratory chemicals, consumables, equipment, and servicesStrategic suppliers include global leaders in lab instrumentation, measurement, and analytical technologiesYou will work closely with engineering, operations, quality, and leadership, and play an active role in supplier development, performance management, and continuous improvement initiatives. Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and execute commodity strategies across the full lifecycle (R&D through production)Lead supplier selection, negotiation, and contract management (RFI/RFP/RFQ)Drive cost savings, cost avoidance, and inventory optimization initiativesConduct supplier audits, performance reviews, and business reviewsOwn supplier risk management, quality improvement, and business continuity planningServe as the primary escalation point for supplier issues within the commodityMaintain and analyze commodity KPIs, scorecards, and performance metricsThis is not a passive or administrative role—hands-on negotiation and ownership are required.

Location & Work ModelHybrid role based in Mesa, AZAfter onboarding period, up to 2 days per week WFHFrequent travel to a primary manufacturing site during the first six months (approximately monthly), then quarterly or as business requiresAdditional supplier travel for audits and reviews as neededIdeal Candidate ProfileSeveral years of experience in commodity or category management within high-tech, semiconductor, PV, or advanced manufacturing environmentsStrong preference for exposure to chemical, laboratory, or technical equipment categoriesDemonstrated success in supplier negotiations, cost savings, and supplier performance managementAbility to work independently with minimal oversightComfortable operating in a fast-growing, engineering-driven organizationBachelor's degree required (Supply Chain, Business, Engineering preferred)SCM certification (CPSM, CSCP, CPIM, or similar) strongly preferredCompensation & BenefitsBase salary: $80K–$110K (DOE)Bi-annual discretionary bonus401(k) with company match – 100% vested day oneComprehensive medical, dental, and vision plansEmployer-funded HSA contributionsUp to 100% tuition reimbursement (approved disciplines)Company-paid life, AD&D, and disability insuranceGenerous vacation and sick time accrualBenefits are competitive with large multinational organizationsWhy This Role Stands OutReal ownership of a defined commodity portfolioExposure to cutting-edge high-tech manufacturingStrong leadership support with room to grow into senior-level scopeStable, profitable organization with long-term investment in U. S. manufacturingCulture that values accountability, collaboration, and resultsInterested? Please apply for a confidential career discussion. Qualified candidates will receive full company details upon initial discussion.