JOB DESCRIPTION
POSITION: Buyer/Planner (Outside Processing/Indirect)
LOCATION: Engineering Lab
REPORTS TO: Materials Control Lead
Position Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Buyer/Planner/Scheduler to support our Research and Development Engineering Laboratory operations. This role combines procurement expertise with strategic planning and scheduling coordination to ensure seamless project execution and optimal resource utilization. The successful candidate will manage complex procurement processes for specialized equipment and materials while coordinating project timelines and resource allocation across multiple R&D initiatives.
Responsibilities:
- Manage complex supply chains which may include consignment inventories, VMI, and/or outside supplier operations and subcontractors including placing Purchase Orders and/or issuing Work/Shop Orders.
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Efficiently manage the assigned group of items and suppliers to deliver the best inventory turns while maintaining a high level of customer service.
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Source and procure specialized laboratory equipment, instruments, materials, and supplies for R&D projects
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Use available inventory replenishment methods and practices to ensure minimal Slow/Obsolete and scrap inventory and maximum availability of inventory for active items.
- Manage suppliers for indirect materials and services, including but not limited to CapEx, MRO, R&D, sample parts and services, establishing & maintaining quality, service, and cost benchmarks.
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Issue of purchase orders and tracking deliveries for material and services required for engineering lab & R&D projects.
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Manage purchasing card (p-card). Consolidate purchases on P-card to fewer suppliers and create leverage. Maintain transaction log and reconcile statements, ensuring internal control.
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Proactively resolve problems and discrepancies with quality, delivery, quantity and invoicing of purchases & maintains procurement records and ensure compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements
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Is intimate with problem solving skills and is comfortable leading a team.
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Owns the tactical day-to-day supplier relationship.
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Identify and implement continuous improvements, both within category responsibilities and within the job description and work processes.
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Builds and maintains strong working relationships with internal Customers and key vendors.
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Participate in special projects and initiatives as appropriate.
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Is proficient in expediting suppliers and logistics and is familiar with impact order management. Escalates when necessary.
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Ensure compliance with safety regulations and laboratory protocols
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Other duties as assigned by Material Controls Lead.
Requirements: (Education, Experience and Personal Attributes)
- Bachelor’s degree in technical or business discipline.
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Minimum of 5 years of experience in Purchasing, Planning, Sourcing or related Supply Chain fields.
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Candidate must be proficient with the Microsoft Office suite of products, especially Excel.
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Candidate must be comfortable interacting with suppliers including situations that may require assertiveness.
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Excellent oral and written communication skills – clearly articulate position with clarity at all levels of the organization.
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Ability to work with key stakeholders in multiple global locations and at various levels; lead cross functional teams toward a common goal.
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Strong analytical problem-solving abilities through the use of contemporary tools and methods.
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Willing to make infrequent overnight travel as needed.
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Setting up new suppliers on BPA and kanban
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Experience with Information M3 ERP system (Profound, BPCS)