Materials Management/Buyer Lead

Job Description

Job Description

Thomson Instruments
Title: Materials Management/Buyer Lead
Location: Carlsbad, CA
Duration: 6-month contract-to-hire
Pay Rate: $40–$42/hr

Overview

The Materials Management/Buyer Lead will lead Purchasing and Production Planning to ensure material availability, efficient production scheduling, and strong supplier performance. This role will drive process improvements across planning and procurement to support on-time delivery, inventory optimization, and cost reduction.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field preferred (or equivalent experience with 5+ years in procurement)
• 5+ years of experience in purchasing, production planning, or materials management
• Experience as a purchaser/buyer or in procurement
• Strong analytical skills with ability to evaluate suppliers and cost structures
• Manufacturing experience required (life sciences, medical device, or plastics preferred)
• Prior leadership or supervisory experience
• Experience with ERP systems (MRP/MPS) and lean supply chain processes (Kanban)
• APICS/CPIM certification preferred

Preferred Skills

• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to build structure and operational discipline in a growing environment
• Hands-on experience with ERP systems, inventory management, and production planning

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Purchasing and Production Planning teams; establish clear priorities and accountability
• Oversee end-to-end procurement processes, including RFQs, supplier selection, pricing negotiations, and order management
• Prepare and issue Requests for Quotation (RFQs) across a wide range of commodities
• Perform commercial analysis of suppliers to identify cost savings and process improvements
• Review proposals, negotiate terms, and manage modifications to purchase agreements
• Manage production schedules and material planning to meet customer demand and inventory targets
• Oversee supplier performance (quality, delivery, responsiveness, and cost)
• Track and follow up on purchase orders, verify delivery, approve payments, and maintain procurement records
• Drive inventory optimization and cost-reduction initiatives
• Collaborate cross-functionally to support operations, ERP utilization, and continuous improvement efforts

Success Metrics

• Improved on-time delivery and schedule adherence
• Reduced material shortages, production disruptions, and expedite costs
• Increased inventory accuracy and improved inventory turns
• Reduction in excess/obsolete inventory
• Improved supplier performance and responsiveness
• Strong ERP adoption and disciplined planning/purchasing processes