Procurement Specialist (Biotechnology)

Job Title: Procurement Specialist (Biotechnology)1 year contract with potential to convert to a full-time permanent positionLocation: On-site in Bedford MA 01730Position SummaryThe Procurement Specialist will be responsible for managing the end-to-end procurement lifecycle ensuring timely sourcing, purchasing, and vendor and contract management of goods and services that support research, development, and operational activities. This role ensures cost-effective purchasing while maintaining compliance with internal policies, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.Key ResponsibilitiesProcurement & PurchasingProcess purchase requisitions and issue purchase orders for laboratory supplies, equipment, consumables, and services, including administrative supplies and servicesSource and evaluate vendors for scientific, technical, and operational needsObtain and compare quotes to ensure best value, quality, and delivery timelinesTrack order status, deliveries, and resolve discrepancies or issuesInvoice Submission and Validation Support by reviewing and reconciling invoicesVendor & Contract ManagementManage and maintain relationships with approved vendors and suppliersMaintain accurate supplier records, certifications, and related documentationLead supplier qualification, onboarding, and periodic re-evaluation in compliance with quality and regulatory standardsMonitor supplier performance and escalate risks as neededMaintain accurate and complete contract records and related documentationMonitor contract expiration dates and proactively manage renewal timelinesEnsure supplier compliance with contractual terms, pricing agreements, service-level agreements, company policies, and all agreed obligations, deliverables, milestones, and commercial commitments.Compliance & DocumentationEnsure purchasing activities comply with company SOPs, requirements (as applicable), and financial controlsMaintain accurate procurement records, supplier performance, contract list, documentation, and audit-ready filesSupport internal and external audits related to procurement activitiesCost & Spend ManagementAnalyze supplier quotations, pricing trends, and total cost of ownershipIdentify and execute cost-saving, cost-avoidance, and cost and service improvement opportunitiesTrack procurement savings, provide procurement reports and prepare periodic spend reportsPurchasing forecastsCollaboration & SupportPartner with R&D, Finance, and Operations teams to forecast needs and align purchasing prioritiesAssist with inventory management and demand planning for critical materialsDevelop and maintain BPM and SAP Ariba system user manuals, standard operating procedures, and training materials; conduct periodic refresher training and system onboarding for new employees Identify system and process improvement opportunities and coordinate system enhancements to improve efficiency, accuracy, and user experience to optimize workflows and system functionalityQualificationsRequiredBachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Life Sciences, or related field (or equivalent experience)2-5 years of procurement or purchasing experience, preferably in biotech, pharma, life sciences, or regulated industriesFamiliarity with laboratory supplies, scientific equipment, or research servicesStrong organizational, communication, and negotiation skillsPrior experience/knowledge on ARIBA and SAP S4/HANA platform, Microsoft Office SuitePreferredKnowledge of supplier qualification and quality documentationExperience working in early-stage or fast-growing biotech companiesProficiency in Excel pivot tables, V-Lookup, etc.Equal Employment OpportunityAt PharmaEssentia Innovation Research Center (PIRC), we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.PIRC does not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to PIRC employees or HR will become the property of PIRC without obligation or fee. At PharmaEssentia, our goal is to treat as many people with cancer as possible. That means challenging the status quo with better science that leads to better lives. By joining our team, you will not only expand your own possibilities, but you will contribute to expanding options for people with cancer. https://us.pharmaessentia.com/careers/