Airline Procurement Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the globalized world, the role of airline procurement specialists has never been more crucial.

As the aviation industry evolves, there’s an increasing demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, improve, and secure our procurement processes.

But what does the role of an airline procurement specialist really entail?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this position,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complexities of airline procurement,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable airline procurement specialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Airline Procurement Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Airline Procurement Specialists play a significant role in managing and overseeing the purchasing functions for an airline company.

They ensure cost-effective procurement and timely delivery of goods and services necessary for the airline’s operations.

The duties and responsibilities of an Airline Procurement Specialist are:

• Evaluate and approve vendors and suppliers, ensuring they meet the company’s quality and delivery standards
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers to obtain the best terms and prices
• Manage and monitor purchase orders, ensuring timely delivery of goods and services
• Coordinate with various airline departments to ascertain their supply needs
• Apply strategies to mitigate supply chain risks
• Ensure procurement practices are in compliance with company policy and regulatory requirements
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with suppliers and stakeholders
• Analyze market trends and implement procurement strategies accordingly
• Maintain detailed records of purchases, pricing, and other important data
• Review and process invoices for payment and resolve any discrepancies in a timely manner
• Continually seek opportunities for cost savings and efficiencies within the procurement process

 

Airline Procurement Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled Airline Procurement Specialist to manage and oversee our company’s procurement activities.

The Airline Procurement Specialist will be responsible for developing purchasing strategies, maintaining positive relationships with suppliers, coordinating with internal teams regarding their supply needs, and overseeing the purchasing team in their daily activities.

Our ideal candidate has a solid background in supply chain management, financial analysis, and negotiation.

The ability to discover and pursue opportunities to reduce costs without compromising quality is a critical aspect of this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop procurement strategies that are inventive and cost-effective.
• Sourcing and engaging reliable suppliers and vendors.
• Negotiate with vendors and suppliers to secure advantageous terms.
• Review and compare existing contracts to ensure ongoing feasibility.
• Build and maintain long-term relationships with vendors and suppliers.
• Inspect deliveries and verify them with orders.
• Oversee the operation of procurement department and staff.
• Prepare and implement effective negotiation tactics.
• Manage and track procurement systems and methods.
• Ensure the compliance of the procurement department with company policies and legal standards.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a procurement specialist or similar role.
• Experience in negotiating contracts and making purchasing decisions.
• Familiarity with sourcing and vendor management.
• Knowledge of procurement software and database management.
• A keen eye for detail and a business mindset.
• Ability to work well with a team.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• BSc/BA in business administration, supply chain management or relevant field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Airline Procurement Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional visits to vendor and supplier locations. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Procurement Manager or Supply Chain Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $58,000 minimum to $102,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Airline Procurement Specialist Do?

Airline Procurement Specialists work for airlines or aviation organizations where they are primarily responsible for purchasing and managing supplies, equipment, services, and commodities necessary for airline operations.

They are involved in the strategic sourcing of goods such as aircraft parts, maintenance equipment, and inflight supplies, ensuring that the organization obtains quality products for competitive prices in a timely manner.

They work closely with suppliers, negotiate contracts and manage relationships to maximize value from partnerships.

Airline Procurement Specialists also oversee inventory levels and may be responsible for initiating and overseeing bidding processes.

They work closely with other departments, such as maintenance, operations, and finance, to understand and meet their procurement needs.

In addition, they are tasked with identifying potential areas of improvement in the procurement process, streamlining operations, and reducing costs wherever possible.

It’s also their duty to remain updated with market trends and changes in industry regulations that could impact the procurement process.

They must ensure all procurement activities comply with organizational policies and regulations.

 

Airline Procurement Specialist Qualifications and Skills

An effective Airline Procurement Specialist should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Exceptional knowledge of procurement practices and supply chain management to ensure the effective sourcing and purchasing of goods and services
• Excellent negotiation skills to obtain the best prices and terms on products, materials, and services from suppliers
• Strong analytical abilities to assess the quality of goods and suppliers, and to conduct cost-benefit analyses to determine the most cost-effective solutions
• Proficient with procurement software and technology to streamline the purchasing process and maintain records of purchase orders, receipts, and payments
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with suppliers, department heads, and procurement team members
• Strong financial acumen to manage budgets, assess financial performance, and make cost-effective procurement decisions
• Detail-oriented and organized to track and manage multiple orders simultaneously and ensure timely delivery of goods and services
• Understanding of airline industry trends, market dynamics, and regulatory standards to make informed purchasing decisions.

 

Airline Procurement Specialist Experience Requirements

Airline Procurement Specialists generally require a degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field.

However, the real-world practical experience is equally, if not more, valuable in this role.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, typically acquired through internships or part-time roles in purchasing, logistics, or supply chain management.

These professionals could also gain relevant experience in roles such as Procurement Assistant, Logistics Coordinator, or Supply Chain Analyst.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have developed their skills and knowledge in procurement roles within the aviation industry.

They usually have a deeper understanding of the procurement process, negotiation strategies, supplier relationship management, and regulatory compliance in the aviation sector.

Those with more than 5 years of experience typically have advanced skills in strategic sourcing, contract management, and financial planning.

They may also have leadership experience, making them suitable for managerial or team-leader positions within an airline’s procurement department.

It’s also beneficial for Airline Procurement Specialists to have industry-specific certifications, such as the Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).

Experience with procurement software and technologies is also highly valued.

 

Airline Procurement Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Airline Procurement Specialists typically have a bachelor’s degree in business, economics, supply chain management, or a related field.

This role requires a deep understanding of procurement processes, contract negotiation, and supplier relationship management, often obtained through years of experience in purchasing or procurement roles.

In addition to the bachelor’s degree, many employers prefer candidates who have a master’s degree in business administration or a related field, particularly for positions that require managing large budgets or contracts.

Professional certifications, such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), or Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP), can enhance career prospects and demonstrate a commitment to the field.

Airline Procurement Specialists should also be proficient in procurement software, and have strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.

On-the-job training, which may include mentorship from a seasoned procurement professional, is also common in this role.

This real-world experience is essential for understanding the nuances of airline industry supply chains and building strong relationships with suppliers.

Continuing education, through workshops or courses on topics such as contract law or inventory management, can further enhance an Airline Procurement Specialist’s skill set.

 

Airline Procurement Specialist Salary Expectations

An Airline Procurement Specialist earns an average salary of $71,500 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can significantly vary depending on factors such as years of experience, expertise in the field, the size of the airline, and the geographical location of the employer.

 

Airline Procurement Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Airline Procurement Specialist need?

An Airline Procurement Specialist should possess strong negotiation and analytical skills to secure the best deals with suppliers.

They should have excellent attention to detail to review contracts and ensure all procurement processes follow the company’s policies and legal regulations.

Additionally, they should have strong communication skills to liaise with different departments and suppliers, and good project management skills to oversee the procurement process from start to finish.

 

Do Airline Procurement Specialists need a degree?

While it’s not a strict requirement, many employers prefer candidates with a degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field.

Some roles might require further certification, such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM).

 

What should you look for in an Airline Procurement Specialist resume?

In the resume of an Airline Procurement Specialist, you should look for a proven track record of successful negotiations with suppliers, previous experience in procurement, and evidence of managing budgets.

Familiarity with procurement software and systems is also valuable.

If the candidate has worked in the aviation industry before, this can be a bonus.

 

What qualities make a good Airline Procurement Specialist?

A good Airline Procurement Specialist is proactive, strategic, and analytical, with a keen eye for detail.

They should be able to manage and prioritize multiple projects at once, work under pressure, and meet tight deadlines.

Strong communication and negotiation skills are crucial.

An understanding of the airline industry and current market trends can also be beneficial.

 

What are the daily duties of an Airline Procurement Specialist?

Daily duties include liaising with suppliers, negotiating contracts, overseeing the procurement process, and ensuring all purchases meet the company’s needs and budget.

They might also spend time analyzing market trends to identify potential new suppliers, meeting with different departments to determine their procurement needs, and resolving any issues or discrepancies with orders.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricate world of an airline procurement specialist.

Surprise in store?

It’s not just about purchasing supplies.

It’s about orchestrating the procurement of aviation assets and services, one purchase at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive airline procurement specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take flight.

But why halt your journey here?

Soar higher with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating tailor-made job listings or perfecting your CV to a tee.

Remember:

Every procurement decision impacts the larger aviation ecosystem.

Let’s navigate this vast sky. Together.

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