Buyer/Purchasing (Aerospace Manufacturing)

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Buyer

Reports To: CEO

Summary: The Buyer is responsible for procuring parts, supplies, and equipment in support of production schedules and organizational goals. This hands-on role drives value by reducing material shortages, minimizing capital investment in inventory, optimizing logistics costs, and developing strategic sourcing solutions. The ideal candidate builds strong vendor relationships and collaborates closely with cross-functional teams to ensure timely project execution and uninterrupted production.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Vendor Management & Negotiation

· Manage and negotiate with vendors to obtain the best possible purchasing conditions, including pricing, availability, delivery schedules, and product/service information.

· Maintain constant vendor contact; monitor the status of all orders and proactively resolve discrepancies related to quantity, quality, and delivery schedule.

· Evaluate suppliers with executive management to assess their ability to conform to quality, price, delivery, and service requirements.

· Source and qualify new suppliers to reduce cost and/or improve lead times.

· Develop crisis management and supplier backup contingency programs.

Purchasing & Order Management

· Prepare purchase orders, change orders, and bid requests; negotiate, source, and procure all material in accordance with production schedules and forecast demand.

· Manage purchase orders to ensure on-time delivery from all suppliers.

· Obtain competitive quotes for subcontract and outside process requirements (e.g., plating, heat treat, etc.) for fabricated materials.

· Maintain standard/automated re-order procedures to support continuous production flow.

· Review and audit internal purchase requisitions for process accuracy and content.

Supply Chain & Inventory Control.

· Keep item master and purchasing system (ERP/MRP) information current and up to date.

· Contact suppliers to address material shortages and engage management when a shortage risk becomes an issue for the end customer.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

· Interface with internal departments (Engineering, Production Planning, Quality, Finance) and outside vendors to resolve all problems and issues related to purchased material.

· Review production schedules, engineering specifications, orders, and related information to obtain knowledge of manufacturing methods, procedures, and activities.

· Prepare material and equipment lists, purchase orders, cost analyses, and estimated production costs in support of project planning.

· Ensure proper flow-down of customer and regulatory requirements to all suppliers.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

· Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, Engineering, or related field preferred.

· Equivalent combination of education and experience considered.

Experience

· Min 7+ years of purchasing/procurement experience.

· Aerospace, defense, or manufacturing environment preferred.

· Familiarity with aerospace materials: forgings, castings, composites, fasteners, and electronics.

Skills & Knowledge

· Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (Syspro preferred).

· Working knowledge of AS9100, FAR/DFARS, and ITAR/export compliance.

· Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications.

· Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

PREFERRED CERTIFICATIONS

· CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management)

· CPIM (Certified in Planning and Inventory Management)

· AS9100 familiarity

· ITAR compliance training

WORK ENVIRONMENT

· Office-based environment within a manufacturing facility; occasional supplier visits or travel may be required.

· Fast-paced, deadline-driven environment requiring the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

· Ability to occasionally access the production floor; Personal Protective Equipment may be required in designated areas

Equal Employment Opportunity: We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $35.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• aerospace purchasing: 1 year (Preferred)
• purchasing: 3 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person