Purchasing Supervisor

Canadian Solar is seeking a Purchasing Supervisor in Kentucky to oversee procurement and sourcing functions, manage supplier relations, and ensure compliance with quality standards. The role involves collaboration with engineering, production, and logistics teams to maintain efficient operations. Candidates should have a degree in Supply Chain Management or a related field, with 3-5 years of relevant experience, particularly in the battery or energy storage industry.
At Canadian Solar, our vision is to make lives better by bringing electricity powered by the sun to millions of people worldwide. As a leading manufacturer of solar panels, inverters, and energy storage solutions, we've been an industry front-runner since our founding in 2001. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in all parts of our organization as we navigate the complexities of a booming industry.

Throughout Canadian Solar's subsidiaries, e-Storage, Recurrent Energy, MSS and CSI Solar Co., we invest in our employees' growth. Our training programs and promotional opportunities ensure we all can continue to learn. We understand the importance of work-life balance and provide various flexible work options to support our employees' well-being. Join our team to "Make the Difference" by creating a lasting positive impact on the world and the communities where we operate.

Position Summary:
The Supervisor, Purchasing will lead the company’s procurement and sourcing functions, including management of BOM (Bill of Materials) procurement, supplier relations, cost control, and strategic sourcing initiatives. The role will require close collaboration with engineering, production, logistics, and finance teams to ensure a timely and cost-effective supply of materials that meet the company’s quality and compliance standards. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical and negotiation skills, experience in supply chain operations, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Primary Responsibilities:
• Supervise and manage all general purchasing activities to ensure operational efficiency and compliance.
• Develop and maintain global supply chain for battery cell and battery energy storage system.
• Oversee the procurement of raw materials, components, and indirect goods and services to support production and organizational needs.
• Coordinate with engineering and production teams to ensure accurate and timely sourcing and procurement of all items listed in the Bill of Materials (BOM).
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships, evaluate vendor performance, and negotiate pricing, terms, and service levels.
• Implement strategic sourcing initiatives to enhance cost savings, improve quality, and reduce lead times.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation of all procurement activities within SAP, ensuring alignment with internal controls and audit requirements.
• Monitor and manage supplier lead times, inventory levels, and material availability to minimize production delays.
• Collaborate with warehouse and logistics teams to ensure seamless material flow from sourcing to delivery.
• Track and report on key procurement metrics, including cost savings, delivery performance, and supplier quality.
• Drive continuous improvement in purchasing processes and support cost-reduction initiatives across departments.
• Ensure procurement activities are compliant with applicable regulations, company policies, and ethical standards.

Qualifications and Experience:
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 3-5 years of purchasing or procurement experience in a manufacturing. or industrial setting.
• Minimum 2 years of purchasing or sourcing experience in battery or energy storage industry.
• 1-2 years of experience supervising procurement teams or leading sourcing projects.
• Familiarity with BOM structures, procurement processes, and supply planning.
• Proficiency with SAP and Microsoft Excel; experience with data analysis and reporting.
• Strong negotiation skills and knowledge of contract terms, pricing structures, and vendor management.
• Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally and build supplier relationships.
• Detail-oriented, results-driven, and able to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
• Understanding of international sourcing, import/export compliance, and trade regulations is a plus.
• Bonus points for experience in the renewable energy or electronics manufacturing sectors.