Buyer (Contract)

Job Description

Buyer IIThe G&W Buyer II will negotiate pricing, vendor selection and/or development, generate and manage purchases and coordinate deliveries to meet production requirements. The G&W Buyer II acts as a subject matter expert and utilizes independent judgement with a high level of accuracy and category expertise to implement appropriate inventory and purchasing tactics. Responsible for managing and monitoring assigned commodities to control delivery, cost, and quality. Works with suppliers to control/reduce lead times. Monitors PPV and mitigates cost increases.As an Buyer II you will:Source and ensure on-time availability of materials required for custom, engineered to order complex productsReview and analyze engineering prints to identify material and component specifications essential for procurement decisionsPrepare quote requests, conduct quotation comparisons, negotiation of contract pricing, terms and conditionsPartner with suppliers to expedite materials and reduce the impact of part shortages.Plan for and execute the procurement of raw material and services from domestic and international suppliers using the in-house ERP/MRP systemsPrepare, issue, and monitor purchase orders, ensuring alignment with procurement schedules and supplier agreements.Lead negotiations to achieve cost savings and improve supplier pricing.Actively work with the Planning and Operations teams to develop strategies to eliminate parts shortages and provide forecasts to suppliers to ensure material availabilityManage and monitor inventory levels to ensure optimal stock availability and minimize excess.Manage day-to-day interactions with suppliers, addressing issues proactively, monitoring performance metrics, and fostering strong communication to support production and supply chain efficiency.Work with suppliers to solve long-term issues impacting delivery, quality, and communicationDetermine items appropriate for Kanban, plan stocking levels, and monitor for sizing changesFacilitate and lead discussions to resolve vendor-related quality issuesAssist supplier quality initiatives including supplier evaluation, scorecard preparation and delivery, create and maintain supplier corrective action plans aimed at reducing delivery and quality issues within the supply baseProcess Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) and resolve supplier-related part rejections through debit memos.Coordinate and process Engineering Change Notices (ECN's) to ensure timely implementation of design and documentation updates.Identify and resolve discrepancies between invoices and purchase orders to ensure accurate payment processing.Support the vendor assessment and selection process by analyzing supplier capabilities, pricing, and performance metrics.Support global supply management with risk mitigation, continuous improvement, and cost savings initiatives, including identification and execution of cost savings opportunities with current and potential domestic and international suppliersDetermine procurement and inventory management strategies for assigned commodityAbility to lead and facilitate complex Supply Chain projectsProvide subject matter expertise on purchasing best practicesOther duties as assignedWe are looking for someone who:Holds a Bachelor's degree, preferably in supply chain or related fieldHas at least 4 years of related experience in Purchasing in a manufacturing operationPossesses strong ERP knowledge, experience using JD Edwards (JDE) a plusHas experience in a "make to order" or "engineer to order" manufacturing environment preferredHas a strong background in supplier and inventory managementIs proficient in MS Word, Power Point, and ExcelPossesses strong presentation skillsHas the ability to solve complex problems in an expeditious mannerHas superior analytical skills and communication skillsHas the ability to foster supplier relationshipsMust effectively exercise independent judgement and decision makingPossesses a high degree of professionalism and persistencePossesses strong inventory control principlesWhat we offer you:Typical pay is $63,550 - 82,513 annually.Please note the pay information shown above is a general guideline. Pay is based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications. Title: Buyer II Location: Bolingbrook IL Hire Type: Contract Shift : 100% on Site Compensation: $63,550 - $80,513 annually Benefits: As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to receive a Full Employee Benefits Package that includes paid time off, paid holidays, 3 medical plans to choose from, dental & vision plans, 401(k), and an Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP) plan. Overview: Join Our Team as a Buyer IIWe're looking for an experienced Buyer II to provide immediate support in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This is a strategic purchasing role responsible for managing complex components, supporting key suppliers, and ensuring materials are available to meet production demands. Job Duties: Source materials and manage supplier relationships for complex engineered products.Negotiate pricing, contracts, and delivery terms.Manage purchase orders and monitor supplier performance.Support day-to-day purchasing activities, including invoice reconciliation, PO validation, and inventory discrepancy resolution.Monitor inventory levels, lead times, and min/max planning parameters.Partner with Operations, Planning, Engineering, and Quality teams to prevent shortages and improve supply chain performance.Drive cost savings, supplier improvements, and continuous improvement initiatives. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree preferred.4+ years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment.Experience with complex parts and strategic suppliers.ERP experience required; JD Edwards (JDE) preferred, SAP or Oracle experience also considered.Strong understanding of inventory management, lead times, and procurement processes.Proficiency in Excel with the ability to analyze and manipulate data.Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.Ability to hit the ground running and work independently.Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.


Meet Your Recruiter

Naeomi Cervantes
Senior Technical Recruiter

Naeomi is a Senior Technical Recruiter at Sterling Engineering with more than two years of experience supporting candidates and clients. She focuses on Sterling's Commercial Division, recruiting for roles across plastics, machining, aerospace, and other specialized technical environments.

Naeomi enjoys recruiting because it gives her the opportunity to make a lasting, positive impact in someone's life. She is passionate about helping candidates find new opportunities that align with their skills, goals, and long-term career growth.

For Naeomi, recruiting is also about building trusted relationships and being a helpful resource beyond one placement. Whether supporting an individual candidate or someone in their network who may be looking for a new role, she takes pride in helping people move forward with confidence.

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Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

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