Headquartered in Toronto, Polar Racking Inc. is a North American leader in the design, engineering and manufacturing of PV mounting systems. We are at the forefront of PV innovation, leading the industry in cutting edge design with a focus on continuous innovation. Our vision is to deliver the highest value to our clients at the lowest cost per kWh. To support this, the company has a diversified portfolio of ground mount and carport products for the commercial and utility scale markets. This, coupled with our unique suite of engineering collaboration tools, technical services and installation support allow us to deliver turnkey solutions that are modular, lighter, and quicker to install. We support our North American and Caribbean clients from our locations in Toronto, Calgary, and US.
The Opportunity:
We are seeking a Senior Procurement Engineer to play a pivotal role at the intersection of engineering and procurement. You will work closely with our design and engineering teams to optimize parts and assemblies (primarily steel, with aluminum, plastic, and rubber components) from a manufacturability and cost perspective. At the same time, you will lead global supplier research, qualification, negotiation, sampling, and logistics to ensure high-quality, cost-effective, and timely material supply.
This is a hands-on, technical role ideal for someone with an engineering background who enjoys shaping designs for cost efficiency while building strong global supplier relationships.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design-for-Manufacturability & Cost Optimization Collaborate with the engineering team to review part and assembly designs (steel, aluminum, plastic, rubber). Provide expert input on suitable manufacturing processes (e.g., roll-forming, stamping, extrusion, welding, casting, machining) and recommend design changes that reduce cost while maintaining structural integrity and performance. Conduct “should-cost” analysis and value engineering to drive cost-effective designs.
- Manufacturing Process Knowledge & Recommendation Evaluate and recommend the most appropriate manufacturing processes for new or existing components. Identify opportunities to switch processes or suppliers to achieve better cost, quality, or lead time outcomes.
- Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management Research, identify, qualify, and develop global suppliers for steel, aluminum, and other critical components and assemblies. Conduct thorough technical and commercial due diligence, including capability assessments and quality audits.
- Negotiation & Contracting Lead negotiations on pricing, terms, MOQs, lead times, quality requirements, and payment conditions. Secure favorable agreements while maintaining strong, long-term supplier relationships.
- Sampling, Testing & Validation Order and manage prototype/sample parts from potential suppliers. Coordinate testing, inspection, and feedback loops with engineering and quality teams to validate manufacturing processes and part performance.
- Logistics & Supply Chain Execution Manage end-to-end logistics for samples and production orders, including coordination with freight forwarders, customs brokers, 3PL providers, and direct shipments to warehouses or job sites across North America and the Caribbean.
- Market Intelligence & Risk Management Monitor commodity pricing (steel, aluminum), market trends, and potential supply disruptions. Develop mitigation strategies and alternative sourcing plans.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration Act as a key bridge between Engineering, Operations, Project Management, and Quality teams. Participate in design reviews and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
- Documentation & Compliance Maintain accurate records of supplier information, quotations, contracts, samples, and cost analyses. Ensure compliance with company policies, Incoterms, and international trade regulations.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Engineering, or a related technical field (strongly preferred).
- 5–8 years of progressive experience in procurement/sourcing within a manufacturing environment, with significant exposure to steel and aluminum fabricated components.
- Strong knowledge of metal manufacturing processes (roll-forming, stamping, extrusion, welding, etc.) and experience with plastics/rubber is an asset.
- Proven experience in cost estimation, should-cost modeling, and value engineering to influence design decisions.
- Hands-on experience researching, contacting, negotiating with, and managing global suppliers.
- Familiarity with international logistics, Incoterms, and shipping of heavy materials.
- Proficiency in ERP systems (Microsoft Dynamics GP preferred) and advanced Microsoft Excel.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
- SCMP designation or progress toward it is an asset.
- Experience in renewable energy or solar PV mounting systems is a plus.
Why Polar Racking?
Join our team and become part of a dynamic company at the forefront of the renewable energy sector. In addition to competitive compensation, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including RRSP contributions, generous vacation time, and the opportunity for career growth.
As a valued member of our team, you'll also enjoy perks such as a company vehicle and a collaborative, fun work environment where innovation and teamwork are celebrated. If you're passionate about making a positive impact in the world while working with a supportive team, we invite you to apply and embark on an exciting journey with us.
We value an innovative, diverse workplace where all colleagues feel empowered to be their authentic selves. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.
