The Supply Chain Specialist is a strategic role responsible for developing and managing manufacturing suppliers that support Sweed Machinery’s highly engineered product lines. This position works closely with Engineering and Operations to ensure the right balance between in-house manufacturing and external partners—leveraging each where it provides the greatest value.
Sweed’s in-house manufacturing remains a core strength and competitive advantage. This role exists to help protect and amplify that advantage by selectively sourcing components, sub-assemblies, and services that:
- Expand overall capacity
- Reduce supply-chain risk
- Improve cost structure where appropriate
- Allow internal teams to stay focused on high-value, differentiating work
The role is intentionally distinct from transactional purchasing and is focused on supplier development, strategic sourcing, and long-term manufacturing partnerships, rather than day-to-day buying.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Identify, qualify, and develop manufacturing suppliers for components and sub-assemblies based on engineering drawings/specs
- Lead RFQ/RFP processes and evaluate on quality, cost, lead time, capability, and risk
- Build and own strong, accountable supplier relationships
- Support make-vs-buy decisions and develop secondary suppliers to increase resilience
- Drive cost reduction/avoidance and manage capacity & supply risks
- Collaborate closely with Engineering and Operations to align sourcing with design and production needs
WHAT YOU BRING
- 5+ years in strategic sourcing, supplier development, or procurement in manufacturing
- Ability to read/interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications
- Experience with machined, fabricated, or assembled components preferred
- Strong negotiation, project management, and cross-functional collaboration skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Business, or related field (preferred)
- Occasional travel for supplier visits (10%)
WHY SWEED
- High-impact strategic role in a growing, innovative American manufacturer
- Collaborative team environment — Engineering, Production, and Sales under one roof
- Competitive salary + generous quarterly profit sharing
- Full benefits: health, dental, vision, 401(k) match, and more
- Beautiful Southern Oregon location with great outdoor access
If you’re a strategic sourcing professional who thrives on building partnerships and smart outsourcing decisions, apply today!
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
- Must pass a pre-employment drug and health screening and remain in compliance with random testing.
- Must be able to work safely in manufacturing environments.