Materials Program Manager

Human Resources Manager / Senior HR Business Partner

Direct message the job poster from Cohu, Inc.

Cohu in Poway (San Diego) is a world leader in semiconductor handling equipment used to test ICs. Join a leading-edge machine vision engineering team and work on interesting and challenging semiconductor test equipment.: The Material Program Manager (MPM) oversees and manages supply chain readiness from engineering/product development to NPI and high-volume production. Key duties include sourcing, supplier selection, managing material strategy, and controlling costs for assigned programs.

The MPM acts as the main liaison with Engineering, and interface with Supply Chain, Operations, and Suppliers to ensure program milestones are achieved. Reports to the Supply Chain Director of Test Handlers and Inspection Metrology. This individual contributor role will also be responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring materials, and services to support NPI program requirements.

This position is based in San Diego (Rancho Bernardo), California and works a hybrid schedule with up to four days a week on site and typically one day of remote work.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead sourcing and supplier selection for NPI programs to support engineering development needs in line with Supply Chain strategy and volume manufacturing in Cohu Asia factories.
• Ensure NPI cost targets through data-driven negotiations and close collaboration with Engineering on manufacturing technology choices.
• Represent Supply Chain in cross-functional and executive meetings, updating on material status, costs, and risks.
• Engage suppliers early in all program phases to support manufacturability, cost, and supply continuity.
• Qualify new suppliers as needed, ensuring quality and program compliance.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Operations to secure materials for NPI projects.
• Monitor and report supply risks throughout NPI stages; proactively address risks via alternative sourcing.
• Assess supplier risks, including financial, geopolitical, cybersecurity, and ESG factors.
• Develop and enforce procurement policies and procedures.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts to maximize value.
• Support cost modeling, benchmarking, and total cost analysis.
• Monitor and expedite supplier deliveries to meet schedules.
• Perform additional duties as needed.

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Education and/or Experience and

Required Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Engineering or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Industry certifications such as CPSM/APICS are advantageous.
• Minimum of five years’ progressive experience in sourcing or NPI program management for technical/engineering products (experience with capital equipment a plus but not required).
• Experience working with Engineering to support NPI projects, including technical/engineering products.
• Thorough knowledge of manufacturing processes, including milling, sheet metal fabrication, and electromechanical modules; demonstrated గ ability to interpret technical drawings.
• Proven experience working with global suppliers across the US, Asia, and Europe.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and planning tools.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and organizational abilities, with a demonstrated capacity to thrive in fast-paced, cross-functional environments.
• Skilled at navigating ambiguity and at influencing teams without direct authority.
• Proficient in MS Office applications Continue...

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the functions of the job.

With more than 3,000 employees worldwide, we offer challenging and rewarding work experiences, competitive compensation and generous employee benefits and a strong company culture. If you are looking for a global publicly traded company that provides you with international experience and a challenging work environment,…