Buyer

Buyer

The buyer is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring materials, components, equipment, and services required for manufacturing operations. This role ensures uninterrupted production by maintaining optimal inventory levels, managing supplier relationships, and driving cost-effective purchasing strategies. The buyer collaborates closely with production, engineering, planning, quality, and customer service teams to meet operational goals.

Essential Job Duties

• Supplier sourcing — Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers capable of meeting quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
• Purchase order management — Create, issue, and track purchase orders to ensure timely delivery of materials.
• Negotiation strategy — Negotiate pricing, terms, contracts, and long-term agreements to optimize cost savings.
• Supplier relationship & performance — Establish and communicate clear expectations for quality, cost, delivery, and responsiveness. Monitor performance through KPIs and scorecards.
• Supplier audits & compliance – Participate in supplier audits to ensure compliance with company requirements and quality management system.
• Non-conformance – Manage supplier non-conformance including, containment, root cause analysis, and corrective/preventative actions.
• Cross-functional collaboration — Work with production, engineering, and quality teams to support new product launches and resolve supply issues.
• Cost reduction initiatives — Identify opportunities for cost improvement through alternative materials, suppliers, or processes.
• Data & reporting — Maintain accurate purchasing records and supplier data in ERP/MRP systems.
• Compliance oversight — Ensure adherence to company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• All other duties as assigned

Education

• High school diploma or GED required
• Bachelor's degree in supply chain or business operations preferred

Skills and qualifications

• 1-3 years' related experience working in a manufacturing operations environment
• Procurement knowledge — Understanding of purchasing processes, supply chain principles, and contract terms.
• ERP/MRP experience — Proficiency with systems such as Epicor, Oracle, SAP, or similar.
• Knowledge of applicable regulatory requirements. I.e. REACH, ROHS, preferred
• APICS, CPIM or CSCP certifications preferred

Work environment

• Works in office full-time, manufacturing environment
• May require periodic travel
• All work is to be performed on site during normal business hours