2027 Converting Associate PATHWAYS Supply Chain Planning Specialist - San Diego CA
The Associate PATHWAYS Supply Chain Planning Specialist at Confidential Client supports global supply chain operations through rotations in procurement, program planning, and supplier quality. This entry-level role involves managing purchase orders, supplier interactions, and program metrics to ensure timely and efficient supply chain processes that support mission-critical systems. The position offers professional development in a collaborative environment focused on innovation and national security.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Accounting & Finance.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
This entry-level PATHWAYS role places you in the Global Supply Chain organization at our confidential client’s Mission Systems sector in San Diego, CA. You will rotate through core supply chain functions to build hands-on skills in procurement, program planning, supplier interactions, and supply chain operations.
- Participate in structured rotations across procurement, program planning, supplier quality, and related supply chain functions.
- Learn and execute basic procurement activities in SAP and Ariba, including creating standard material purchase orders (SMAT).
- Support creation and issuance of Requests for Quotation (RFQs) and review supplier quotations; perform basic price analysis.
- Maintain procurement documentation and records using the organization’s eFile system.
- Track program-related KPIs (e.g., late-to-release requisitions, on-time delivery to MRP) and support reporting.
- Act as a supplier point of contact for non-category management suppliers, participate in status meetings, and support expediting and issue resolution.
- Create requisitions through established processes (M903/M922) and support CAMs with procurement tasks.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and small proposals (BOEs) as assigned.
- Coordinate with internal teams to learn procurement timelines and cycle time goals (target PO release within a 30-day cycle).
Responsibilities — Procurement & Program Planner Pathways
Procurement Pathways specific responsibilities:
- Create and release purchase orders in SAP; process purchase order change orders.
- Access and manage buyer purchase requisition work queues.
- Use Ariba to onboard new suppliers and understand procurement procedures (PrOP).
- Learn organizational skills to manage workload and meet PO cycle-time targets.
Program Planner Pathways specific responsibilities:
- Serve as supplier lead for non-category suppliers; manage status meetings and issue resolution.
- Participate in program and cross-functional meetings.
- Track and report program KPIs and support on-time delivery activities.
- Assist with procurement documentation, quote support, and negotiation activities.
- Support smaller proposals and contribute to continuous improvement projects.
Basic Qualifications
To be considered, candidates must meet ALL of the following:
- Completing or recently completed a degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) from an accredited institution.
- Major in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Finance, or a related field.
- U.S. citizenship required and able to obtain a U.S. Government security clearance.
- Ability to obtain Special Access Program eligibility within a reasonable period.
- Previous internship with the confidential client is listed as a requirement.
Preferred Qualifications
- Cumulative GPA of 3.25/4.0 or higher.
- Previous internship, co-op, or relevant work experience demonstrating leadership, teamwork, and strong communication skills.
- Exposure to Power BI, Tableau, and advanced Microsoft Office skills including Excel formulas, pivot tables, and PowerPoint.
Compensation & Employment Type
- Salary range: $63,000 to $94,600 per year.
- Employment type: Full-time (Contractor engagement possible per program structure).
- Relocation assistance: May be available.
- Travel: Approximately 10% of the time.
Location & Program Notes
- Location: San Diego, CA (on-site rotations expected).
- This is an early-career PATHWAYS program — rotational assignments provide broad exposure across supply chain functions and structured learning opportunities.
- The position supports mission-critical programs; security clearance requirements and program-specific access may apply.
What We’re Looking For
- Highly motivated, curious early-career candidates who want practical experience in supply chain operations.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Comfortable working in cross-functional teams and participating in continuous improvement activities.
- Willingness to learn tools such as SAP, Ariba, and data visualization platforms.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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