Estimating & Procurement Program Manager

The Estimating & Procurement Program Manager at Cambrian plays a pivotal role in leading the estimation and procurement processes for all company projects. Responsibilities include analyzing project specifications to ensure accurate pricing, developing procurement strategies that align with project goals, establishing relationships with vendors to procure quality materials, and monitoring project budgets. Furthermore, they work closely with various teams to ensure that procurement risks are managed effectively and compliance is maintained.

To be successful in the Estimating & Procurement Program Manager position at Cambrian, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or a related field, along with 3-5 years of relevant experience in procurement and estimation within the wastewater and renewable energy sectors. Essential skills include strong negotiation abilities, proficiency in cost estimation, and familiarity with procurement software and project management tools.

For the Estimating & Procurement Program Manager role at Cambrian, strong negotiation and vendor management skills are crucial. Additionally, candidates should possess excellent analytical capabilities, the ability to prioritize multiple projects, and effective communication skills for team collaboration. Familiarity with sustainable procurement practices and cost estimation tools is also highly valued.

The work environment for the Estimating & Procurement Program Manager at Cambrian is dynamic and collaborative, requiring interaction between various teams such as engineering, finance, and legal offices. While the position allows for flexibility, with options to work from home, the role demands a proactive approach and consistent communication about project statuses. A culture of innovation and sustainability pervades all operations, making the work both impactful and rewarding.

As an Estimating & Procurement Program Manager at Cambrian, you can look forward to a robust benefits package, including health care plans for medical, dental, and vision, a retirement plan, life insurance options, generous paid time off, and family leave. Additionally, Cambrian offers short-term and long-term disability benefits, training and development opportunities, wellness resources, and a supportive work-from-home culture.

When estimating for a new project, I start by thoroughly analyzing the project specifications and scope to gather all necessary details. I ensure to involve relevant stakeholders to validate assumptions and clarify expectations. Utilizing historical data and estimation software also helps in crafting a competitive and accurate budget, which I then present to project management for feedback.

In one instance, I was negotiating a supply contract for materials needed for a wastewater treatment project. By conducting market research, I understood the price ranges and leveraged this data during negotiations. I was able to secure better pricing and quicker delivery terms, ultimately saving the project significant costs and time.

My experience with project budgeting includes developing detailed cost estimates based on project specifications and scope. I create budgets that accommodate all necessary resources while leaving room for unforeseen expenses. Throughout the project, I continuously monitor expenditures versus the budget, making adjustments as needed to keep the project on track financially.

Managing multiple procurement processes requires thorough organization and the use of project management tools. I create a timeline for each procurement process, prioritize tasks based on project deadlines, and communicate regularly with vendors to ensure timely responses. This structured approach allows me to efficiently handle various projects without compromising on quality or deadlines.

In my previous roles, I implemented various procurement strategies that focused on building long-term relationships with reliable suppliers, conducting regular market analysis to find new potential vendors, and utilizing technology to streamline procurement activities. Moreover, I emphasized sustainable procurement practices to align with corporate social responsibility goals, enhancing both efficiency and environmental impact.

During a project, I noticed that one of our primary suppliers was consistently experiencing delays in deliveries, which posed a significant risk to our timeline. I proactively evaluated alternative suppliers, which enabled us to diversify our supplier base, thereby mitigating the potential risks of future delays.

To ensure compliance with procurement policies, I maintain open communication with all stakeholders involved and regularly review organizational guidelines. Additionally, I provide training and resources to team members to keep everyone informed about current policies, reinforcing the importance of following these protocols during procurement activities.

I utilize various tools specifically designed for estimation and procurement, including software like ProEst for cost estimation and Coupa for procurement management. These tools help streamline processes, enhance accuracy, and allow me to maintain comprehensive records of estimates and procurement activities efficiently.

Evaluating vendor quality involves several steps, such as researching supplier history and reputation, requesting samples of materials or services, and assessing their compliance with industry standards. I also believe in establishing a good relationship with vendors, which allows for transparency and open communication regarding quality expectations.

I'm motivated by the challenge of ensuring accuracy in project costing while fostering relationships with suppliers that contribute to project success. It's fulfilling to contribute to sustainable practices in environmental engineering while working on projects that impact local communities positively.