MRO Buyer

Advanced Digital Cable, Inc. (ADC), founded in 1997, is a U.S.- based leader in manufacturing electronic, industrial, RF, hookup, and traffic signal wire and cable. Headquartered in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, ADC proudly operates multiple U.S. facilities with cutting-edge technology, supported by a skilled team and an ISO-certified Quality Management System.

ADC is seeking a dynamic MRO Buyer located at our Blairsville, GA or Hayesville, NC facility. The successful candidate will be responsible for the procurement of all indirect materials and services required for maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO), including spare parts, tools, consumables, safety supplies, janitorial items, facility services, and capital spares. The role ensures optimal inventory levels, cost efficiency, supplier performance, and compliance while supporting plant reliability and operational continuity. The position also contributes to general office and site administrative/support tasks as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Core Duties
  • Source, negotiate, and purchase MRO items (spare parts, equipment, electrical components, PPE, tools, cleaning supplies, facility services, etc.) in accordance with company policies and budget guidelines.
  • Manage the full procurement cycle: requisition review, RFQ/RFP issuance, bid analysis, supplier selection, PO creation, expediting, and receipt verification.
  • Maintain stock levels, safety stocks, and consignment programs to prevent stock-outs while minimizing excess/obsolete inventory.
  • Identify and implement cost-saving opportunities (price negotiations, standardization, alternative sourcing, volume contracts).
• • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers; conduct supplier performance reviews and resolve quality/delivery issues as required.
  • Collaborate closely with maintenance, operations, engineering, and HR teams.
  • Ensure compliance with company safety, ethical sourcing, and regulatory requirements (e.g., ISO, environmental standards).
  • Manage vendor-managed inventory (VMI), blanket orders, and service contracts (e.g., HVAC, pest control, waste management).

• General Office and Site Responsibilities
  • Participate in production and maintenance planning meetings to align MRO procurement activities with operational needs.
  • Assist with receiving, inspecting, and resolving discrepancies for incoming MRO shipments.
  • Support physical inventory counts and cycle counts; investigate and reconcile variances.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in the ERP system for parts, suppliers, and purchase history.
  • Coordinate with accounting on invoice reconciliation and payment issues (3-way match discrepancies).
  • Assist with safety and housekeeping audits in the storeroom and procurement areas; ensure proper labeling and storage of hazardous materials.
  • Serve as backup for Direct Materials procurement.
  • Participate in site safety programs, emergency response drills, and environmental compliance activities as required.
  • Perform general administrative tasks as needed.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).
  • At least 2-3 years of procurement experience, with some time specifically in MRO/indirect purchasing in a manufacturing, plant, or industrial environment.

• Core Skills
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Ability to work with all levels of the organization.
  • Some negotiation and contract management experience preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite with experience in ERP systems.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work in both office and plant floor environments (occasional exposure to noise, dust, and machinery).