Job Title: Strategic Sourcing SpecialistJob Description Join our team as a Strategic Sourcing Specialist and become the driving force behind a high-performing supply chain. We are seeking a proactive, relationship-savvy professional to elevate our procurement operations. As a Strategic Sourcing Specialist, you will be at the core of our supply chain strategy, building strong partnerships, optimizing costs, and ensuring smooth operations. This role is about creating value, driving innovation, and making a measurable impact every day. Responsibilities + Forge powerful supplier relationships to secure top-quality materials, services, and equipment that meet our high standards for price, quality, and delivery. + Evaluate and elevate our supplier base by analyzing performance, reliability, and total cost to ensure optimal partnerships. + Lead the development of long-term sourcing strategies and manage annual purchase agreements to streamline operations and reduce costs. + Collaborate cross-functionally with sourcing, engineering, manufacturing, quality, and logistics teams to align procurement with business goals. + Coordinate emergency responses to supply chain disruptions and maintain smooth operations. + Manage the procurement process from initiating purchase orders to negotiating terms, expediting deliveries, and overseeing vendor communications. + Support internal teams with ERP/MRP systems and contribute to continuous improvement in procurement processes. Essential Skills + Strategic mindset with a passion for efficiency and innovation. + Strong communication skills to build trust and alignment across teams and suppliers. + Data-driven decision-making and process optimization abilities. + Experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain management, with bonus points for ERP/MRP expertise. + 1-3 years of progressive experience in purchasing practices and procedures. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Experience in the principles of lean manufacturing is preferred. Work Environment This is an in-person role where you will work for an industry leader alongside a collaborative, forward-thinking team that values your ideas. You will have opportunities to grow, lead, and make a real difference. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Madison, South Dakota. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $26.00 - $35.75/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Madison,SD. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Sep 5, 2025. About Aston Carter: Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com (%20astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com) for other accommodation options.