The role
Tasks include:
• monitoring stock levels and supply sources
• coordinating storage and distribution operations
• identifying and negotiating contracts with suppliers
• accelerating delivery for material shortages or missing shipments
• preparing production schedules.
Skills required to be a Procurement Specialist
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Great relationship management
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Strong negotiation skills
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Good time-management
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Strategic thinking
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Ability to adapt to change
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Understanding of risk management
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Understanding of sustainability and the global market
Previous experience
Many Procurement Specialists in rail have worked in:
- construction, resources, defence or property services sectors
- rail customer service
- railway track roles
- supply chain operations.
Minimum requirements
There are no mandatory qualification requirements for the role of Procurement Specialist.
However, formal qualifications in areas such as procurement, supply chain operations or law may desired by some employers.
Several years experience in procurement is generally required for senior positions.
Additional qualifications for career progression
Depending on the procurement job role, some of the following VET qualifications may be helpful:
BSB40120 - Certificate IV in Business
TLI40321 - Certificate IV in Supply Chain Operations
PSP40616 - Certificate IV in Procurement and Contracting
BSB50120 - Diploma of Business
PSP50616 - Diploma of Procurement and Contracting
Universities also offer relevant qualifications in procurement, logistics, supply chains, law and business.
What a Procurement Specialist's career progression can look like
Procurement Specialists may look to advance their career through roles such as warehouse manager, project manager and audit manager.
What do I do next?
For more information on becoming a Procurement Specialist:
- check out Procurement Specialist on the Work in Rail website
- talk to your careers adviser
- contact your local TAFE or universities
- if you already work in rail, talk to your employer.
Meet Kaine
Kaine Hadlow is a Procurement Specialist with Metro Trains.
Kaine was a Mechanical Engineer when he joined the procurement team. His job includes developing strategies to ensure projects meet local content and social procurement targets.
You can read more about Kaine's career here.
If you have great job in rail, get in touch.