Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Strategic Sourcing Specialist

At BWX Technologies, Inc., we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. A U.S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear solutions for global security, clean energy, environmental restoration, nuclear medicine, and space exploration. With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers. Our company supplies precision manufactured components, services, and fuel for the commercial nuclear power industry across four continents. Our joint ventures provide environmental restoration and operations management at a dozen U.S. Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT's technology is driving advances in medical radioisotope production in North America and microreactors for various defense and space applications.

We believe in empowering our employees and cultivating a dynamic workplace that fosters growth and collaboration. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your career, you'll find opportunities to challenge yourself, learn from seasoned experts, and contribute to nuclear innovation. We require a diverse range of skills to support our work in the markets that drive our business and welcome candidates from all backgrounds and life stages who are passionate about making a difference.

Position Overview

The Strategic Sourcing Specialist plays a critical role in the procurement process, responsible for creating, issuing, and managing purchase orders for materials and services in compliance with BWXT and government policies and procedures. This position requires a proactive and detail-oriented individual dedicated to optimizing supplier performance, ensuring timely delivery, and contributing to cost efficiency and strategic sourcing initiatives.

Location

On-site in Oak Ridge, Tennessee

Your Day to Day as a Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Create, issue, and oversee purchase orders for materials and services following established BWXT and government policies.

Monitor and track the progress of purchase orders from issuance to delivery, ensuring adherence to timelines and compliance.

Research and select suppliers based on qualifications, capabilities, and alignment with BWXT's strategic goals.

Request and evaluate quotes, analyzing pricing structures to ensure competitiveness and value for money.

Lead negotiations with suppliers to achieve favorable terms and pricing, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Collaborate with the assigned Category Manager to execute contracts that align with organizational strategies and objectives.

Manage supplier performance by establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and conducting regular performance reviews.

Address supplier issues promptly, implementing corrective actions to ensure 100% on-time delivery and service quality.

Develop and maintain comprehensive weekly reports that track requisition processing, purchase order placement, supplier acknowledgments, invoicing, and supplier payments.

Conduct root cause analysis on delays, quality issues, and cost variances; develop and implement corrective actions in cooperation with cross-functional teams.

Collaborate with subcontracts, supply chain, program management, and quality assurance teams to align procurement priorities with customer requirements.

Participate in cross-functional meetings to discuss supplier performance, procurement strategies, and improvements.

Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance procurement processes, increase efficiency, and reduce operational costs.

Set and deliver on key performance indicators related to cost reduction, process efficiency, and supplier performance, supporting the annual budgetary targets.

Required Minimum Qualifications

Must possess an active DOD or DOE security clearance.

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.

At least 10 years of relevant experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management, with a focus on government contracting.

Extensive knowledge of FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation) and DFAR (Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation) requirements.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to perform cost analysis.

Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and experience with procurement software / systems.

Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and strategic thinking.

Preferred Additional Qualifications

Master's degree or relevant certification (e.g., CPSM, CIPS).

What We Offer

Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.

Flexible work schedules and paid time off to promote a healthy work-life balance.

Professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and sponsorship for continuing education.

An inclusive atmosphere that celebrates new perspectives and supports collaboration between different generations.

The chance to be part of a mission-driven organization making a positive impact on the future of energy.

Opportunities for continuous learning and training to grow throughout your career!