Senior Buyer

Senior Buyer

Advantest America is the North American subsidiary of Advantest Corporation, the world's largest provider of Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) to the semiconductor industry. For over six decades, Advantest has led the way in developing new and innovative test and handling solutions for the global electronics industry. Advantest is seeking an experienced Sr. Buyer. This is an on-site role, located at Advantest Test Solutions in Lake Forest, CA.

The Sr. Buyer is at the center of activity for the Supply Chain, working with our business unit, engineers, and the manufacturing team, to develop sourcing strategies for new products and key commodities. This includes price negotiations, supplier review/setup, and contract preparation.


Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Analyze the financial viability and risk of suppliers.
• Oversee purchase requisition process, ensure consistent use of policies and procedures, in conjunction with finance and procurement.
• Research industry trends, including sourcing, technology, and market prices.
• Analyze cost drivers and developing strategies to reduce costs.
• Assist in creating and processing purchase orders, in accordance with documented processes for purchasing of all controlled materials, non-controlled materials, consumable items, other supplies and equipment as needed.
• Communicate with Management and Stakeholders regarding purchase order status, purchasing volumes, capacity/material issues, remedial action plans and other reporting criteria through the generation of monthly metrics and KPI's.
• Facilitate cost savings, quality, and continuous improvement projects.
• Review proposals, work with procurement team for negotiation of pricing with suppliers.
• Advise business on new vendor review, selection, and onboarding.
• Establish, review, and execute vendor contracts (in partnership with procurement and legal).
• Manage relationships with suppliers.
• Participate in supplier audits with the Quality team, as required.
• Explore alternate sources for goods and materials.
• Willing and able to travel, as some travel may be required.
• May act in place of the Manager, as required and authorized.
• All other duties as assigned.

Requirements, Education & Skills:

• BA or BS Degree in related field, with 8 or more years of experience (capital equipment or semiconductor purchasing preferred).
• Experience in the review and negotiation of legal agreements.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills are required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and, at times, stressful environment.
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.
• Strong computer skills in Microsoft Office software (e.g., Excel) and Oracle ERP/MRP business applications required.
• Strong commitment to accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, and other colleagues.
• Must be able to: multi-task, be flexible, work in a close-knit team-oriented atmosphere, and have the ability to interact professionally with internal and external customers.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills to work with all levels of employees and to effectively manage vendor relations.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
• APICS Certification preferred.
• An ability to be productive and successful in an intense work environment.
• This is an on-site role in our Lake Forest, CA office.