Senior Buyer

Job Description Job Description Overview AmeriWater is a long-established industry leader in the design, manufacture, installation and supply of water purification systems and services for dialysis, industrial and healthcare applications. We are looking for a Senior Buyer to join our growing team in Dayton, Ohio! Location: Onsite - Dayton, Ohio 45414 Relocation: None Position Summary Responsible for developing and executing procurement strategies to ensure the timely and cost-effective acquisition of materials, components, and supplies. This role focuses on vendor management, cost control, contract negotiations, and ensuring material availability to support production and operations. Works cross-functionally with engineering, production, planning, and quality teams to optimize the supply chain and mitigate risks. Primary Responsibilities Procurement & Purchasing Identify, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers to secure the best terms for pricing, quality, and lead times. Issue and manage purchase orders (POs) while ensuring on-time delivery of materials. Monitor and control material costs to align with budgetary and profitability goals. Support and manage cost-reduction strategies and optimize supplier performance. Support sourcing activities for New Product Development. Supplier & Vendor Management Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers and vendors. Conduct supplier performance evaluations, ensuring compliance with quality and delivery expectations. Resolve supplier issues related to quality, delivery, and cost discrepancies. Identify and qualify alternative suppliers to mitigate risk and improve supply chain resilience. Inventory & Material Planning Collaborate with Production, Planning, and Warehouse teams to ensure material availability. Support inventory level optimization to reduce excess stock while preventing shortages. Monitor supplier-managed inventory (SMI) or just-in-time (JIT) strategies. Analyze purchasing trends and forecast material requirements based on demand planning. Contract & Compliance Management Negotiate and manage supplier agreements, contracts, and terms. Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, company policies, and industry standards. Work with the Quality and Engineering teams to ensure purchased materials meet specifications. Manage risk by evaluating supplier financial stability, geopolitical risks, and market trends. Continuous Improvement & Cost Savings Drive cost-saving initiatives through strategic sourcing and supplier collaboration. Work with Engineering to identify opportunities for material standardization and cost-effective alternatives. Maintain key procurement metrics (e.g., cost savings, supplier performance, purchase lead times). Participate in lean initiatives to streamline procurement processes and eliminate waste. Requirements Education & Experience High School Diploma or Equivalent required. Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field, preferred. Minimum five (5) years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or supply chain management within a manufacturing or assembly environment. Experience with ERP/MRP systems for purchasing and material planning. Strong understanding of supply chain principles, contract negotiation, and cost analysis. Skills & Attributes Strong negotiation and supplier relationship management skills. Analytical mindset with experience in cost reduction and risk mitigation strategies. Ability to work cross-functionally with Engineering, Production, and Quality teams. Knowledge of lean manufacturing, JIT, and strategic sourcing practices. Proficiency in Excel, ERP/MRP systems, and procurement software. Strong problem solving, verbal and written communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to multitask effectively. Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook); experience with ERP systems. Licenses & Certifications None Benefits 401(k) 401(k) matching Health insurance Dental insurance Vision insurance HSA Employer Contribution Employee Assistance Program Life insurance Company Paid Short-term and Long-term Disability Paid time off AmeriWater is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. AmeriWater is an E-Verify Program participant.