A supply engineer oversees product and service delivery to ensure that it is as efficient as possible. This is a type of process control that ensures that processes are efficient and timely in order to meet the needs of a business or government agency. There are several different types of jobs available in this field, each with its own set of requirements and job descriptions. This position should not be confused with a power supply engineer, who works in electrical engineering and is responsible for designing and implementing power supplies for a variety of systems.
A supply engineer who works for a manufacturer to source equipment is one type of supply engineer. This can range from chemical tanks for a fertilizer company to sewing machines for a clothing company. The engineer estimates the costs of various equipment options, compares available products, and selects the best options for the company’s needs. When evaluating options, it may be necessary to consider the possibility of future expansion, and the engineer must consider both long-term maintenance costs and the initial investment required to purchase the equipment.
To keep the supply chain moving, supply engineers may also source routine supplies for manufacturing. When there are slowdowns, the company may have to shut down production or put products on back order, which can result in losses. These engineers foresee needs on the line, ensure raw materials are on hand, and seek out alternatives if they suspect a problem. This can include preparing for natural disasters, anticipated raw material supply disruptions, and so on.
Other positions may entail managing natural resource supplies. A water supply engineer is the most common example, as they support operations at a facility that delivers water to customers. Customers’ needs and available supplies must be estimated, and the best allocation for distributing water to customers must be determined. They may need to consider the need to balance competing needs within their agency’s service area, as well as participate in drought and other shortage planning to keep water supplies stable.
This field’s training and experience can vary depending on the job. Some companies hire from within their own ranks, relying on people who are familiar with their processes to find supplies. In other cases, formal education and experience in the field may be required. A civil engineering degree, for example, may be required for a water supply engineer.