Senior Buyer

Job Title: Senior Buyer

Location: Placentia, CA (Onsite)

Employment Type: 6 month contract for LOA

Schedule: Monday – Friday | 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Overtime as needed)

Compensation: $78,000 – $105,000 annually (flexible based on experience)

Position Overview

The Senior Buyer is responsible for supporting purchasing and supply chain operations within a manufacturing environment. This role focuses on sourcing and procuring materials, components, equipment, and outside processing services to meet production and customer requirements.

The position also plays a key role in supplier management, procurement strategy, and team support, including mentoring junior Buyers and contributing to overall supply chain efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate and recommend suppliers based on capability, pricing, performance, and compliance with organizational and regulatory requirements
• Collaborate with Planning and Scheduling teams to establish pricing, delivery timelines, and procurement strategies
• Prepare RFQs, analyze bids, and lead vendor negotiations for pricing, terms, and conditions
• Manage purchase orders and ensure on-time delivery; resolve delays, shortages, or quality issues
• Maintain accurate supplier records and procurement data within ERP/MRP systems
• Lead negotiations for high-value procurements and support cost reduction initiatives
• Source and qualify new domestic and international suppliers aligned with aerospace standards
• Procure complex materials and services including castings, forgings, raw materials, hardware, and outside processing
• Support forecasting and demand planning in coordination with Sales and Operations
• Assist in workload balancing and provide guidance, training, and mentorship to junior Buyers
• Drive supplier performance, consolidation efforts, and continuous improvement initiatives

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Manufacturing, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 5–8 years of procurement experience in a manufacturing environment
• Strong knowledge of procurement processes, ERP/MRP systems, and supplier management
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints
• Proven experience negotiating contracts, pricing, and terms
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Office applications
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, results-driven environment

Preferred:

• Aerospace industry experience
• Experience purchasing metals, castings, forgings, and machined components
• APICS certification (or similar supply chain certification)

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Office-based role with regular interaction on the manufacturing floor
• Frequent use of computers, phones, and office equipment
• Occasional walking, bending, reaching, and handling documents/materials
• Ability to move throughout office and production areas as needed
• Visual requirements include close vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment