Job Summary:
A Buyer is responsible for managing the procurement process of goods and services for an organization, focusing on strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, supplier relationship management, cost optimization, and ensuring the timely delivery while maintaining quality standards. Oversees complex purchasing activities across multiple categories.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Contract Negotiation: Negotiating terms and conditions with suppliers, including price, delivery schedules, payment terms, and quality standards.
- Supplier Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong relationships with key suppliers, ensuring consistent performance and addressing any issues promptly.
- Cost Analysis: Analyzing purchasing data to identify cost-saving opportunities, implementing cost reduction strategies, and managing budgets.
- Inventory Management: Monitoring inventory levels to optimize stock and avoid overstocking or shortages.
- Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating potential supply chain risks, including price fluctuations, geopolitical issues, and supplier disruptions.
- Compliance: Ensuring all purchasing activities adhere to company policies, legal regulations, and ethical standards.
- Performance Monitoring: Tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) related to procurement, such as cost savings, delivery time, and supplier quality.
- Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
Requirements:
- Proven ability to negotiate favorable contracts with suppliers.
- Ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and make informed data-driven purchasing decisions.
- Understanding of market dynamics, industry trends, and competitor landscape.
- Ability to manage complex procurement projects from initiation to completion.
- Effective communication with internal stakeholders, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.
- Deep understanding of procurement processes, including sourcing, RFQs, bidding, and contract management.
- High level of digital fluency required. Must be comfortable using procurement software systems, modern ERP systems, e-sourcing tools, and digital analysis software.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Several years of experience in a purchasing role, ideally with increasing responsibility.
- A positive/can-do attitude and team player.
- Expected to work no less than 40 hours per week, and some OT may be required.
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or related field (master’s degree is a plus).
- Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in procurement or purchasing, specifically within a manufacturing or technical environment.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
- Professional certification (e.g., CIPS, CPSM, or equivalent) preferred.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles (TPS, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, Kanban, Fishbone) is a plus.
- Experience in purchasing aluminum/steel hedging is a plus
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of standing and walking.
- Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times
- This role is primarily based in a manufacturing facility where the operator will be exposed to noise, dust, and heavy machinery.
- Strict adherence to safety protocols is essential to ensure a safe working environment.
Why Come Work for Us:
- Competitive Compensation Packages
- Competitive Employee Benefit Packages
- Health
- Dental
- Vision
- Life & Disability Insurance
- Comprehensive Employee Wellness Program
- Health Savings Account – Employer Contributions
- 401 (k) with Employer Matching
- Professional Career Development Opportunities
- Learning Management System
- Paid Time Off
- Tuition Assistance Program
- Employee Reward and Recognition Program
- Value-Driven Culture