Job Title: Senior Purchasing & Cost Analysis SpecialistJob Description

The Senior Purchasing & Cost Analysis Specialist plays a critical role in evaluating supplier quotations, analyzing manufacturing cost structures, and ensuring suppliers meet development and production schedules. This position requires strong analytical capabilities, extensive manufacturing knowledge, and effective negotiation skills, all while supporting a high-volume automotive environment. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative setting and is comfortable navigating ambiguity, shifting priorities, and managing complex supplier relationships.

ResponsibilitiesAssess supplier quotations to ensure alignment with engineering drawings, specifications, styling intent, and program requirements.Analyze cost gaps, validate manufacturing processes, and negotiate directly with suppliers on cost and schedule concerns.Lead cost analysis activities for complete vehicle programs, including establishing cost tables, evaluating maker layout options, and supporting CBU cost targets.Coordinate supplier activities related to development schedules, tooling readiness, production milestones, and delivery commitments.Prepare clear documentation and justification for cost proposals using cost tables, supplier data, and internal evaluation tools.Support production fulfillment activities, ensuring timely material availability and supplier readiness.Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, program management, manufacturing, and quality teams to resolve issues and maintain program timelines.Manage multiple projects simultaneously, adjusting priorities as needed to support business and production demands.Identify opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, and supplier performance enhancement.Essential Skills5+ years of experience in purchasing, cost analysis, manufacturing, product development, or related fields.Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and cost drivers, including materials, tooling, labor, and overhead.Proven ability to analyze supplier quotes for accuracy, feasibility, and cost reasonableness.Excellent negotiation, communication, and supplier-facing skills.High attention to detail with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project, and online research tools.Ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage deadlines in a dynamic environment.Experience working in large, structured organizations or startup-like environments where adaptability is essential.Additional Skills & QualificationsComfortable working in environments with ambiguity and evolving requirements.Strong initiative and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.Willingness to travel as needed for supplier visits or program support.Work Environment

This role requires a minimum of 4 days per week onsite, offering an engaging and fast-paced environment. The position involves collaborative work with various teams and necessitates adaptability to shifting priorities and complex supplier relationships.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Torrance, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $53.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job\n classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be\n subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits\n available for this temporary role may include the following:\n\n • Medical, dental & vision\n • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital\n • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available\n • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)\n • Short and long-term disability\n • Health Spending Account (HSA)\n • Transportation benefits\n • Employee Assistance Program\n • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Torrance,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 19, 2026.

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\n\nAbout Aston Carter:\n

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.

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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.

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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 for other accommodation options.

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