Buyer

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for a Buyer to support manufacturing operations by securing the materials, equipment, and services needed to keep production running smoothly. This position partners with teams across production, engineering, quality, planning, and customer service to align purchasing activity with business priorities in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The ideal candidate brings strong supplier management skills, sound commercial judgment, and the ability to balance cost, quality, and delivery performance.

Responsibilities:
• Identify and qualify vendors that can consistently meet expectations for pricing, quality, service, and on-time delivery.
• Prepare, release, and monitor purchase orders to ensure materials and services arrive according to production schedules.
• Lead commercial discussions with suppliers to secure favorable pricing, contract terms, and long-term purchasing agreements.
• Build productive supplier partnerships by setting performance expectations and reviewing results through metrics and scorecards.
• Take part in supplier assessments and audits to confirm adherence to company standards and quality system requirements.
• Address supplier-related quality issues by coordinating containment actions, investigating root causes, and driving corrective measures.
• Work closely with internal departments to support product launches, respond to shortages, and resolve supply chain disruptions.
• Recommend savings opportunities by evaluating alternate sources, materials, and procurement approaches.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records and supplier information within enterprise planning and procurement systems.
• Ensure buying activities follow company policies, safety expectations, and applicable regulatory standards.• Experience working as a Buyer in a manufacturing environment.
• Working knowledge of MRP and ERP systems used for purchasing and inventory control.
• Strong understanding of procurement practices, supplier negotiations, and purchase order administration.
• Ability to evaluate supplier performance related to quality, cost, and delivery.
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams to support production and operational goals.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage non-conformance and supplier-related issues.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for internal coordination and supplier interaction.