Summary
The R&D Operations Senior Specialist coordinates purchasing, invoicing, test-material procurement, calibration services, vendor administration, and operational records for YCNA Research & Development at YDCA. The role works across R&D, Finance, suppliers, and service providers to ensure timely support, accurate documentation, and audit readiness.
Responsibilities
Procurement and Financial Administration
- Manage purchase requisitions, purchase orders, goods receipts, invoices, and supporting records for R&D services, equipment, materials, and supplies.
- Monitor cost, delivery, payment, and transaction status; resolve discrepancies with internal stakeholders and suppliers.
- Prepare the monthly YOTHA invoice package and maintain audit-ready financial documentation.
Test Materials and Calibration
- Coordinate purchasing, receipt, shipment, and allocation of production tires, competitor tires, wheels, and other test materials.
- Track availability and delivery timing, address supply risks, and confirm materials are available for planned testing.
- Coordinate external equipment calibration, including quotations, purchase orders, scheduling, shipment, certificates, GageTrak entries, and due-date follow-up.
Vendor and Operational Support
- Coordinate supplier onboarding, documentation, records, contacts, and administrative issue resolution.
- Maintain work instructions, process maps, trackers, templates, and operational reports.
- Support process improvements and special projects, protect confidential information, and perform other duties as assigned.
- Perform other tasks as assigned by management.
Knowledge and Skills
- Strong organization, prioritization, problem-solving, communication, and follow-through.
- Proficiency with Microsoft 365; SAP experience strongly preferred and GageTrak experience preferred.
- Working knowledge of purchasing, receiving, invoicing, vendor administration, and controlled records.
- Ability to interpret business and technical documents, maintain accurate data, collaborate cross-functionally, and improve processes.
Education and Experience
- Associate degree in business, supply chain, operations, engineering technology, or a related field required; bachelor’s degree preferred. Equivalent relevant experience may be considered.
- Five or more years of relevant experience in operations coordination, procurement, purchasing, accounts payable, supplier administration, laboratory support, or a related function.
- Experience supporting engineering, R&D, testing, laboratory, manufacturing, or quality environment preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Primarily office-based at YDCA with regular interaction in warehouse, laboratory, and equipment areas.
- Occasional material handling and business travel may be required.
- Must follow applicable safety, quality, confidentiality, and information-security requirements.
