Job Title: Purchasing Specialist III (R&D Operations – P2P Support)
Location: Waukegan Road, North Chicago, IL 60064
Duration: 3 Months (Potential extension based on performance and business need)
Work Arrangement: 100% On-site
Environment: High-volume, low-value transactional purchasing
 
Position Purpose:
The Purchasing Specialist III will support R&D Operations within the Procure-to-Pay (P2P) lifecycle. This role is responsible for the timely execution of purchase orders, ensuring that scientific teams have the materials and services required for their operations. You will act as a critical link between internal stakeholders, suppliers, and the accounts payable department to ensure a seamless supply chain.
 
Key Responsibilities:

• Order Management & Execution: Initiate high-volume purchase orders in response to customer requests using systems such as SAP SRM, Ariba, or RMM Jaggaer. Handle WBS (Work Breakdown Structure) associated orders accurately. Post receipts for goods and services and ensure the appropriate close-out of open orders.
• Supplier & Stakeholder Liaison: Act as the primary point of contact between the business and suppliers to resolve order issues (e.g., damaged goods, incorrect shipments, or returns). Provide exceptional customer service to the R&D community and Stockroom teams.
• Invoice Resolution & Financial Compliance: Investigate and resolve invoice discrepancies related to pricing, quantity, or matching errors. Partner with the Purchasing and Corporate Disbursement Office to troubleshoot and fix payment issues. Utilize SAP S4Hana for invoice problem-solving and reconciliation.
• Tracking & Reporting: Monitor open and outstanding orders to ensure timely delivery and close-out. Utilize procurement automation tools (bots) and internal chemical procurement systems to maintain efficiency.

 
Qualifications & Requirements:

• Education & Experience: High School Diploma with 4+ years of relevant experience; OR Associate’s Degree with 3+ years of relevant experience; OR Bachelor’s Degree with 2+ years of relevant experience.

Technical Skills:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in procurement or payment systems.
• SAP SRM (Shopping Cart creation) and SAP S4Hana (Invoice resolution) experience is highly preferred.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to learn new internal software and automation tools quickly.

Soft Skills:

• Reliability: Proven track record of consistent attendance and a strong work ethic. Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with scientists and suppliers. Analytical Thinking: High attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities with limited oversight.

 
What Makes a Successful Candidate?
The hiring team values consistency and dependability. This is a fast-paced, high-transaction environment where accuracy is vital. Candidates who are proactive in resolving discrepancies and maintain a reliable daily schedule often find opportunities for long-term growth and potential conversion. 
 
At SPECTRAFORCE, we are committed to maintaining a workplace that ensures fair compensation and wage transparency in adherence with all applicable state and local laws. This position’s starting pay is: $ 35.00/hr.