GSA - Buyer - Memphis
The Global Sourcing Associate at Confidential Client is an entry-level procurement role focused on developing expertise in purchasing and supply chain operations within the pulp and paper industry. The position involves managing purchase orders, conducting competitive bids, negotiating contracts, and supporting inventory optimization through data analysis, providing a foundation for future sourcing roles across North America.
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, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is hiring an entry-level Global Sourcing Associate (GSA) — a procurement-focused development role based in the Memphis, TN area. This 18-month program gives early-career professionals hands-on experience across purchasing, supplier engagement, and inventory optimization to prepare for manufacturing or corporate sourcing positions.
Primary Responsibilities
- Purchase materials, parts, supplies, and equipment following established policies while optimizing price, delivery, and terms.
- Create and manage purchase orders; track order status and expedite when needed.
- Support stakeholders to define specifications and requirements for materials and services.
- Run competitive bid processes: solicit quotes, analyze proposals, and recommend suppliers.
- Negotiate commercial terms that balance value and risk while ensuring compliance with purchase requirements.
- Support inventory optimization efforts by analyzing data and coordinating with operations and storerooms.
- Assist with contract administration, basic supplier performance tracking, and documentation.
Who We’re Looking For (Minimum Qualifications)
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Supply Chain, Logistics, Purchasing, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field.
- Authorized to work in the United States.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or equivalent academic standing (as noted by the source posting).
- Geographic flexibility for an 18-month assignment at a U.S. mill or corporate location.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Solid computer skills; advanced Microsoft Excel required. Experience with data visualization tools is a plus.
- Self-starter demonstrated through internships, campus leadership, work experience, or relevant projects.
Program & Location Details
- This is an entry-level, full-time development program with an initial 18-month assignment at one manufacturing or corporate location (preferred locations may be requested; final placement is based on availability).
- Typical placement regions include North America (examples: Memphis, TN; Ticonderoga, NY; Eastover, SC).
- Associates receive hands-on training in procurement operations, storeroom/purchasing tasks at mill locations, and exposure to category sourcing and supplier management.
Compensation & Benefits
- Estimated annual salary (source estimate): $78,187 per year.
- Benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k) with match, paid time off, paid holidays, and relocation assistance when applicable.
- Exact compensation and benefits information will be confirmed by the hiring organization and may vary subject to applicable law.
Preferred / Helpful Skills
- Experience with competitive bidding or supplier quotation processes.
- Comfort working with procurement systems / ERP basics.
- Familiarity with inventory management concepts and materials planning.
- Analytical mindset with ability to use Excel for data analysis and reporting.
What You Can Expect from Careertakes & Our Client
- Structured, on-the-job training across procurement functions.
- Mentorship from procurement and operations teams.
- Opportunity to transition into a permanent manufacturing or corporate sourcing role after program completion.
- A hiring process supported by Careertakes; final hiring decisions are made by our client.
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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