Schmidt Ocean Institute (SOI) was founded by Eric and Wendy Schmidt in 2009 with a goal to advance the frontiers of ocean exploration and research through technological advancement, intelligent observation, and open sharing of information. This is achieved by making ship time and associated assets freely available to scientists globally. In exchange, SOI supports public sharing of acquired scientific observations, data, and other information about the ocean to stimulate the growth of data applications and user community and to amplify and enable further exploration, discovery, deeper understanding, and effective conservation and management of our environment.
The Logistics and Procurement Specialist sources and procures optimal products and services for the operation of the Institute’s oceanographic research vessel Falkor (too), and other areas within the Institute requiring procurement assistance. The Logistics and Procurement Specialist ensures that the Institute makes wise purchase decisions, optimizing cost, quality and logistics considerations.
Responsibilities
- Purchase products and services required by the Vessel and the Institute’s shoreside teams to maintain operational and mission readiness.
- Generate purchase orders, maintain accuracy of purchasing and inventory systems and records.
- Assist the Institute’s Procurement Manager and the Logistics & Supply Chain Manager with the tendering processes, evaluations, contracting, contract management, legal considerations, payment conditions, contractors, performance evaluations, risk assessments and sustainability.
- Review purchase terms and conditions; negotiate vendor purchase orders and contracts.
- Monitor vendor progress on purchase order and contracts in process; verify quality of service provided and adherence to contract terms.
- Ensure timely preparation of procurement plans for projects, and monitor their implementation.
- Ensure full compliance of procurement activities in accordance with the Institute’s Purchasing Policies and Procedures. Evaluate and suggest updates to the policies and procedures as needed.
- Produce and analyze weekly Exception Reports and monthly Purchase Order Volume Reports.
- Occasionally travel to the Vessel to conduct periodic physical inventories, fixed asset and sample testing, and storeroom walk-throughs.
- Recommend and work with the Institute’s management and the Vessel’s crewmembers to create more efficient and effective shipboard Inventory Management systems.
- Provide physical support at the Institute’s storage facility for inventorying, packaging, storing and shipping.
- Review storeroom management best-practices to ensure there is no undue overstocking or loss.
- Recommend to management improvements to the procurement processes and systems for purposes of enhancement, and implement changes as requested.
- Ensure transparency in process logistics such that end-users can identify each purchase order and its current status at any time.
- Understand and maintain current knowledge of new projects and Vessel cruise plans.
- Other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Ability to analyze and synthesize information effectively.
- Strong understanding of procurement practices and principles with a demonstrated skill in negotiating.
- Ability to work independently and in a team, with an ability to solve problems and a drive for results.
- Understanding of basic finance and accounting principles as they relate to controlling costs and maintaining a budget.
- Advanced computer literacy in Google G-Suite, Microsoft Office, Smartsheet, MS Project (or other Project Management software), preventive maintenance systems, purchasing and inventory systems.
- Ability to lift over 50 pounds; ability to stand/walk for long periods, stoop, kneel/crouch, and climb up/down ladders.
Education and Experience
- Degree or certificate in Business, Purchasing or a related field
- Minimum three years experience in maritime offshore industry or working with globally operating vessels
- Valid driver’s license
- Valid passport and the ability to travel internationally
Desired Experience
- Cruise line experience as a hotel department purchasing agent or a ship’s purser.
- Hazardous Materials domestic and international shipping experience
- Forklift experience, with forklift certification.
$38.46 – $43.26 an hour
This is a non-exempt position
Schmidt Ocean Institute is an equal opportunity employer and we strive to create an atmosphere where diversity of identity, experience, and background are welcomed, valued, and supported. We believe that diversity brings about greater results on all levels and we aim to use our resources to generate greater impact through our work. Candidates who contribute to this diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.
