Company Description Upside Robotics develops and deploys autonomous, AI-enabled field robots that help corn growers apply nutrients precisely when and where crops need them. Its robotic systems operate throughout the growing season, combining agronomy expertise, field-level sensing, and real-time soil, weather, and crop intelligence to continuously adapt nutrient rate, timing, and placement. Built for commercial agriculture and proven on real farms, Upside Robotics enables growers to reduce input waste, lower costs, protect soil health, and improve crop performance. By integrating robotics, agronomy, and data, the company is building a more precise, profitable, and resilient approach to nutrient management for modern agriculture.
Role Description The Procurement Specialist is a full-time, on-site role based in Waterloo, ON, responsible for sourcing and purchasing components, materials, and services that support Upside Robotics’ engineering, manufacturing, and field operations. This role manages supplier relationships, negotiates pricing and terms, and ensures timely delivery of parts needed for robotic systems and supporting infrastructure. The Procurement Specialist coordinates with engineering, operations, and finance teams to forecast demand, maintain optimal inventory levels, and address supply chain risks. Day-to-day work includes issuing purchase orders, tracking shipments, resolving discrepancies, maintaining procurement records, and identifying opportunities for cost savings and quality improvements. The role also contributes to developing procurement processes and tools that scale with the company’s growth.
Qualifications
- Demonstrated skills in procurement, purchasing, and supplier management, including negotiating contracts and managing vendor performance.
- Experience with inventory control, demand planning, and basic supply chain management to support manufacturing or hardware development.
- Ability to read technical specifications and collaborate with engineering teams to ensure appropriate sourcing of mechanical, electrical, and electronic components.
- Proficiency with procurement or ERP software, spreadsheets, and data analysis for tracking costs, lead times, and supplier metrics.
- Strong organizational, time-management, and documentation skills, with attention to detail in purchase orders, receipts, and invoice reconciliation.
- Clear written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and build constructive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Relevant experience in manufacturing, robotics, agricultural technology, or hardware startups is an asset.
- Post-secondary education in business, supply chain management, engineering technology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
- Comfort working on-site in a fast-paced, hands-on environment and adapting to evolving processes and priorities.
