20+ Senior Procurement Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Supplier selection criteria in our organization include quality, cost, delivery time, reliability, and sustainability.

• Quality of products/services provided by the supplier

• Cost competitiveness of the supplier

• Delivery time and reliability of the supplier

• Supplier's track record and reputation for reliability

• Sustainability practices of the supplier

• Ability to meet specific requirements and standards set by the organization

My current CTC is $80,000 and I am expecting a 10% increase in my next role.

• Current CTC: $80,000

• Expected increase: 10%

• Expected CTC: $88,000

I negotiate with suppliers by building strong relationships, understanding their needs, and finding mutually beneficial solutions.

• Establish clear communication channels with suppliers

• Understand the supplier's needs and constraints

• Focus on creating win-win solutions

• Be prepared to walk away if necessary

• Use data and market research to support negotiation points

I am currently handling the procurement of electronic components for our company's manufacturing process.

• Managing supplier relationships for electronic components

• Negotiating prices and terms for bulk purchases

• Ensuring timely delivery of components to meet production deadlines

Contracts in procurement are managed through careful negotiation, monitoring, and communication.

• Negotiate terms and conditions with suppliers to ensure favorable outcomes for both parties.

• Monitor contract performance to ensure compliance with agreed-upon terms and conditions.

• Communicate regularly with suppliers to address any issues or changes in the procurement process.

• Document all contract-related activities and maintain accurate records for future reference.

• Evaluate suppli...read more

GD&T ensures precise communication of design intent and manufacturing specifications in engineering drawings.

• Defines allowable variations in part dimensions, ensuring parts fit together correctly.

• Facilitates clear communication between design and manufacturing teams, reducing errors.

• Examples include using 'flatness' to ensure a surface is level within specified limits.

• Helps in quality control by providing measurable criteria for inspection.

• Supports assembly processes by ensur...read more

Landed cost in procurement refers to the total cost of a product once it has arrived at its destination, including all expenses incurred during the shipping process.

• Landed cost includes the cost of the product, transportation fees, customs duties, taxes, insurance, and any other expenses related to getting the product to its final destination.

• It is important for procurement engineers to consider landed cost when making purchasing decisions to accurately assess the total cost ...read more

I manage suppliers by establishing strong relationships, setting clear expectations, monitoring performance, and continuously improving processes.

• Establish strong relationships with suppliers through regular communication and feedback

• Set clear expectations regarding quality, delivery timelines, and pricing

• Monitor supplier performance through key performance indicators (KPIs) and regular audits

• Continuously improve processes by identifying areas for cost savings and efficiency ...read more

I track inventory levels using a combination of software systems, manual counts, and regular audits.

• Utilize inventory management software to track real-time inventory levels

• Conduct regular physical counts of inventory to compare with system records

• Implement barcode scanning or RFID technology for accurate tracking

• Perform regular audits to identify discrepancies and improve accuracy

I rate myself as highly proficient in Microsoft Excel, with advanced skills in data analysis, formulas, and macros.

• Proficient in creating complex spreadsheets for data analysis

• Skilled in using advanced formulas and functions

• Experienced in creating and running macros for automation

• Familiar with data visualization tools like charts and graphs

The most critical agreement in a contract is the one that outlines the scope of work and deliverables.

• Scope of work and deliverables agreement is critical as it defines the expectations of both parties

• It outlines the specific tasks to be completed, timelines, and quality standards

• Without a clear scope of work, there can be misunderstandings and disputes

• Examples include construction contracts, software development agreements, and consulting contracts

P2P process refers to Procure-to-Pay process which involves the steps from requisition to payment for goods or services.

• P2P process starts with a requisition being made by a user or department for goods or services needed.

• The requisition is then approved by the appropriate authority before being converted into a purchase order.

• The purchase order is sent to the supplier, who then delivers the goods or services.

• Upon receipt, the goods or services are inspected and accepted by t...read more

I have dealt with an average of 50-60 transactions per month in my previous role as a Senior Engineer procurement.

• In my previous role, I was responsible for procuring raw materials, equipment, and services for the company.

• On average, I handled 50-60 transactions per month, which included negotiating prices, drafting contracts, and ensuring timely delivery.

• I also maintained a database of suppliers and regularly evaluated their performance to ensure quality and cost-effectivene...read more

SCM stands for Supply Chain Management, which involves the coordination and optimization of all activities involved in the procurement, production, and distribution of goods.

• SCM involves planning, sourcing, making, delivering, and returning goods in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

• It includes activities such as supplier selection, negotiation, order processing, inventory management, and logistics.

• SCM aims to streamline processes, reduce costs, improve quality, and enha...read more

Delivering s/s items involves a series of steps from procurement to final delivery.

• Identify the need for s/s items

• Research and select suppliers

• Negotiate terms and pricing

• Place orders and track progress

• Inspect quality upon delivery

• Ensure timely delivery to meet project deadlines

The procedure of procuring an item involves identifying needs, sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, and managing delivery.

• Identify the need for the item

• Research potential suppliers

• Negotiate terms and pricing

• Create and sign contracts

• Track delivery and manage inventory

Payment terms refer to the conditions under which a buyer agrees to pay a seller for goods or services.

• Payment terms can include the amount due, due date, and any discounts for early payment.

• Common payment terms include Net 30 (payment due 30 days after invoice date) and 2/10 Net 30 (2% discount if paid within 10 days, otherwise payment due in 30 days).

• Negotiating favorable payment terms can help improve cash flow and reduce financial risk.

SLD - Single Line Diagram, EKD - Equipment Key Diagram

• SLD is a simplified notation for representing a power system in electrical engineering

• EKD is a diagram that shows the key components of equipment in a system

• SLD is commonly used in electrical engineering for system analysis and design

• EKD helps in identifying and understanding the key components of equipment in a system

OLTC - On Load Tap Changer, RTCC - Remote Tap Changer Controller

• OLTC stands for On Load Tap Changer, used in transformers to regulate the voltage output

• RTCC stands for Remote Tap Changer Controller, used to remotely control the tap changer operation

• Both OLTC and RTCC are essential components in power systems for voltage regulation

A nut and bolt are mechanical fasteners used to secure two or more objects together.

• A nut is a small metal block with a hole in the center, used to fasten the bolt in place.

• A bolt is a threaded cylindrical rod with a head at one end, used to fasten objects together.

• The nut is screwed onto the bolt to secure the objects in place.

• Different types of nuts and bolts are available, such as hex nuts and carriage bolts.

400/220/132 kV grid refers to a power grid with three different voltage levels: 400 kV, 220 kV, and 132 kV.

• 400/220/132 kV grid consists of three different voltage levels for transmission of electricity

• 400 kV, 220 kV, and 132 kV are the specific voltage levels used in this type of grid

• Each voltage level serves a specific purpose in the transmission and distribution of power

Vendors of items are suppliers or manufacturers who provide goods or services to a company for procurement purposes.

• Vendors play a crucial role in the procurement process by supplying necessary items or services to a company.

• Companies often have relationships with multiple vendors to ensure a steady supply of goods.

• Vendors can range from small local businesses to large multinational corporations.

• Negotiating contracts and pricing with vendors is a key responsibility of procure...read more

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, essential for indoor climate control.

• Heating: Involves systems like furnaces and heat pumps to maintain comfortable temperatures.

• Ventilation: Ensures proper air circulation and quality, using exhaust fans and air ducts.

• Air Conditioning: Cools indoor spaces using refrigerants and air conditioning units.

• Example: A central HVAC system in a commercial building regulates temperature and air quality.