Procurement Specialist

Location: On-site in Chicago, IL

Industry: Advanced Manufacturing & Industrial Components

Employment Type: Full-time

A global leader in high-performance industrial solutions is seeking a Procurement Specialist to drive efficiency, compliance, and cost savings across its production operations. This role plays a pivotal part in the success of the company's manufacturing processes, with a unique focus on optimizing materials sourcing and leading U.S. trade compliance initiatives, including tariff drawback programs.

This is a career-defining opportunity for a procurement professional eager to own strategy, streamline operations, and influence cost-saving initiatives. You’ll join a highly collaborative team environment that thrives on precision, innovation, and operational excellence in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing setting.

Key Responsibilities:

Procurement & Supply Chain Operations:

• Lead day-to-day procurement functions, including sourcing raw materials, issuing POs, and managing vendor relationships.
• Ensure the timely and cost-effective acquisition of both direct and indirect materials for production.
• Collaborate with planning, warehouse, and inventory teams to maintain healthy stock levels and avoid delays.
• Evaluate supplier performance regularly, leading initiatives to reduce costs without compromising quality.
• Maintain up-to-date and accurate procurement data within ERP systems.

Trade Compliance & Tariff Drawback Program:

• Own and optimize the entire tariff drawback process for eligible imported materials used in manufacturing.
• Liaise with cross-functional teams (logistics, finance, operations) to gather and organize documentation for U.S. Customs compliance.
• Coordinate with external consultants and brokers to ensure timely and accurate filing under all eligible drawback categories (unused, manufacturing, rejected merchandise).
• Monitor evolving trade regulations and ensure all processes meet CBP compliance (19 CFR Part 191).
• Quantify and present opportunities for duty recovery to support broader margin improvement efforts.

Required Qualifications:

• 5–7 years of progressive procurement or supply chain experience within a manufacturing environment.
• Direct experience managing or significantly supporting U.S. tariff drawback claims.
• Expertise in supplier negotiation, sourcing strategy, and cost optimization.
• Proficient in ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or NetSuite, with strong Microsoft Excel skills.
• Familiarity with import/export processes and documentation (HTS codes, Entry Summaries, Bills of Lading, etc.).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated success filing CBP drawback claims (manufacturing or unused merchandise categories).
• Knowledge of ISO standards or lean manufacturing principles.
• Certifications such as CPSM, CSCP, CTCS, or other trade compliance credentials.
• Experience working with third-party brokers and trade compliance service providers.

Key Traits for Success:

• Highly analytical with a detail-oriented mindset.
• Skilled in balancing strategic thinking with hands-on execution.
• Comfortable leading cross-functional projects with multiple internal and external stakeholders.
• Driven by results with a continuous improvement mindset.

This role offers a rare opportunity to blend procurement leadership with trade compliance expertise, allowing for measurable impact on both operational flow and bottom-line savings. If you're passionate about sourcing excellence and global trade strategy, apply now to learn more.

About Blue Signal:  

Blue Signal is an award-winning, executive search firm specializing in various specialties. Our recruiters have a proven track record of placing top-tier talent across industry verticals, with deep expertise in numerous professional services. Learn more at bit.ly/46Gs4yS