Buyer

Job Title: Buyer Job Description The Buyer works closely with the supply chain and contracts team to execute purchasing activities for the department. This role is responsible for processing requisitions from business units and efficiently converting them into accurate purchase orders. The Buyer may also set up inventory programs, identify and implement process improvement opportunities, and evaluate and adopt technology enhancements, including automation, to increase productivity in purchasing operations. Responsibilities Handle all aspects of purchase order creation, maintenance, and close-out in alignment with departmental procedures. Work within the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system and other supply chain platforms to create, update, and manage purchase orders, ensuring accurate and timely processing. Develop and maintain an efficient and accurate system for monitoring all open purchase orders, ensuring visibility into status and next steps. Prepare and deliver reports to management that summarize closed purchase orders, vendor spend, and other key purchasing and supply chain metrics. Identify and determine automation opportunities related to the replenishment of routinely purchased items to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort. Manage punch-out and catalogue purchases, and identify opportunities to improve the efficiency and utilization of these systems. Implement and support best practices in purchasing, including building and maintaining solid supplier relationships, supporting investment recovery, promoting online requisitioning, and leveraging electronic data interchange (EDI), supplier-assisted inventory management, and e-commerce tools. Promote and support organization-wide sourcing guidelines, policies, procedures, and practices to ensure consistency and compliance in purchasing activities. Identify enhancements to information systems needed to achieve desired purchasing and supply chain performance, and collaborate with internal personnel to prioritize and implement these improvements. Perform work under the direct supervision of a Manager or Senior Manager, following established policies while proactively contributing to continuous improvement in purchasing processes. Essential Skills At least 4 years of related experience in purchasing or supply chain. Knowledge of procurement processes and purchasing best practices. Ability to manage multiple requests efficiently and effectively while remaining flexible in a dynamic environment. Understanding of process design and work simplification programs related to supply chain operations. Strong problem identification and problem-solving skills with a focus on practical solutions. Proficiency in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, preferably version 9.2, and familiarity with e-Procurement tools. High attention to detail with strong written and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated proficiency using evolving technological tools to streamline daily tasks and communications. Ability to work effectively in a diverse work environment and collaborate with cross-functional teams. Additional Skills & Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Purchasing, or Supply Chain is preferred. Professional certifications such as Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM), Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM), or Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) are preferred. Experience working with electronic data interchange (EDI), supplier-assisted inventory management, and e-commerce platforms. Experience developing or improving monitoring systems for open purchase orders and vendor spend reporting. Familiarity with punch-out and catalogue purchasing systems and their optimization. Exposure to investment recovery practices and company-wide sourcing guidelines, policies, and procedures. Work Environment This role is based on site in Cedar Rapids, IA. The Buyer works in a professional office environment in close collaboration with the supply chain and contracts teams, using ERP systems (preferably version 9.2), e-Procurement tools, and other supply chain platforms on a daily basis. The position operates under the direct supervision of a Manager or Senior Manager and involves regular interaction with internal stakeholders and external suppliers. The work setting supports the use of modern technological tools to streamline purchasing activities, reporting, and communication, and emphasizes a diverse and inclusive environment where collaboration and continuous improvement are encouraged. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Cedar Rapids, IA. Pay And Benefits The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $28.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Cedar Rapids,IA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Aug 20, 2026. About Aston Carter Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing Platinum Award winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools. #J-18808-Ljbffr Aston Carter