Technical Sourcing Manager

Donaldson is committed to solving the world’s most complex filtration challenges. Together, we make cool things. As an established technology and innovation leader, we are continuously evolving to meet the filtration needs of our changing world. Join a culture of collaboration and innovation that matters and a chance to learn, effect change, and make meaningful contributions at work and in communities. ​   We are seeking an ambitious, results-driven Technical Sourcing Manager (TSM) to join our Global APD (Advanced Product Development) Procurement team based at our manufacturing operations in Aguascalientes, Mexico. In this role, the candidate will lead strategic sourcing activities, supplier industrialization, and cross-functional APD launches for high-impact New Product Introduction programs supporting both US and Mexico manufacturing plants. Working in a truly international environment, the candidate will bridge engineering innovation with strategic procurement to build competitive, high-quality supply chains across core commodities.

Responsibilities: APD Sourcing Leadership: Lead end-to-end strategic procurement deliverables within the APD ( APQP ) phase gates for assigned new product launch projects across US and Mexico manufacturing sites. Supplier Scouting & Selection: Scout, assess, benchmark, and select capable suppliers in close alignment with Global Category Management strategies and approved supplier panels. RFQ & Costing Execution: Prepare and execute comprehensive RFQ packages (evaluating 2D/3D engineering drawings, volume curves, and BOM structures), delivering accurate piece prices and tooling costs into project costing on time. Tooling & Industrialization: Lead tooling quotations, commercial negotiations, and purchase order (Tool PO) releases; monitor supplier tooling build timelines, trials (FOT), and lead-time commitments. Quality & Approval Process (sPPAP): Coordinate supplier part qualification, sample approvals, and supplier sPPAP submissions in close partnership with Plant Quality and Supplier Quality Engineering (SQE). Cross-Functional Stakeholder Alignment: Act as the primary procurement interface for project stakeholders, Best Cost Country (BCC) Sourcing: Actively identify and develop competitive Best Cost Country (BCC) supplier alternatives within Mexico and broader regions across core commodities (Plastics, Castings, Stampings, Machining, and Rubber). Cost Avoidance & Commercial Agreements: Deliver measurable project cost avoidance, negotiate favorable commercial terms, and support Category Management in securing Sourcing Agreements (IRA/LTA) and volume rebates. Project Transition & Handover: Ensure seamless operational handoff of completed NPI projects to Plant Buyers and Category Managers, verifying that ERP/BPA master data and contracts are fully executed. Travel: Up to 15–20% (occasional domestic travel to plants/suppliers and international visits to US headquarters / technical centers as required).

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.

Minimum of 3+ years of professional sourcing, project procurement (APQP/APD), or tactical plant purchasing experience in manufacturing or automotive environment (Tier 1/Tier 2 or industrial engineering). Technical Comprehension: Proven ability to read and interpret technical engineering drawings (2D/3D CAD models) and understand manufacturing processes across commodities such as plastic injection, metal stampings, castings, or rubber. Quality Standards: Direct working knowledge of AIAG automotive APQP/PPAP processes, supplier quality audits, and tooling development milestones. Languages: Fluent English, capable of leading international business meetings and commercial negotiations. Computer Skills: Experience in MS Office (advanced Excel) and