Specialist, General Purchasing

Position Overview

At Canadian Solar, our vision is to make lives better by bringing electricity powered by the sun to millions of people worldwide. As a leading manufacturer of solar panels, inverters, and energy storage solutions since 2001, we are committed to sustainability and invest in our employees’ growth through comprehensive training programs and flexible work options. Join our team to "Make the Difference" and create a lasting, positive impact in our communities.

Position Title: Purchasing Specialist
Department: Supply Chain
Reports To: Supply Chain Senior Manager

The Purchasing Specialist is responsible for supportive and administrative duties related to purchasing, logistics, and inventory. This role supports management and staff to ensure successful procurement operations with a focus on continuous improvement processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Create request for quotation (RFQ) and meet with vendors to select based on price, service, and production needs.
• Control ordering of materials, monitor inventory levels, and collaborate with vendors to ensure on-time delivery.
• Process purchase requisitions from internal departments ensuring proper approvals.
• Liaise with freight forwarders and domestic/international suppliers to monitor shipments and ensure timely arrival of materials.
• Identify and communicate supply issues with vendors and internal teams.
• Collaborate with team members to address damaged shipments and follow up with suppliers, insurance companies, and field inspectors.
• Monitor, evaluate, and analyze vendor performance to ensure quality and timely delivery.
• Manage supplier relationships and update management on vendor issues.
• Maintain and update Material Requirement Planning (MRP) data and investigate abnormal material usage.
• Monitor production schedules to balance available materials with production requirements.
• Participate in weekly planning and purchasing conference calls.
• Perform new material cost evaluations for management review.
• Take on additional tasks as needed in the absence of departmental staff.
• Ensure all activities adhere to the highest ethical standards and comply with the Canadian Solar Code of Business Conduct.
• Support ISO 9001 activities and comply with environmental, health, and safety rules and policies.
• Perform other duties as required.

Required Qualifications

• Degree or Diploma in procurement or a related field and/or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated analytical skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills for interfacing with individuals at all organizational levels.
• Ability to build and maintain lasting relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Proven ability to work efficiently both as part of a team and independently.
• Excellent time and project management skills.
• Proficient in MS Office, enterprise ERP systems, and email communication.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using SAP.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary plus a fully comprehensive benefits and performance bonus package based on annual objective achievement.
• Generous package including a 401(k) Retirement Plan, medical/life/disability program, PTO, and sick days.

Canadian Solar Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive environment and ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities.