Outsource Buyer

Build Strategic Supply Chains. Solve Complex Manufacturing Challenges. Drive Results.At Scot Forge, we manufacture high-performance forged components for some of the world's most demanding industries. With more than 130 years of success, $600M+ in revenue, and 100% employee ownership, we offer more than a job, we offer the opportunity to make a lasting impact.We're hiring an Outsource Buyer to support our machining, heat treat, and outsourced manufacturing operations. This highly visible role is responsible for developing sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, evaluating manufacturing capabilities, and ensuring outsourced work is delivered at the highest levels of quality, cost competitiveness, and on-time delivery. Through a combination of technical expertise and strong relationship management, this position helps Scot Forge meet customer commitments while supporting growth and operational performance.You'll partner closely with Engineering, Operations, Quality, Sales, Production Control, and external suppliers to develop innovative manufacturing solutions, support new business opportunities, and ensure outsourced operations align with customer requirements and production schedules.This position is based in Spring Grove, Illinois and offers the opportunity to influence a critical part of Scot Forge's manufacturing and supply chain strategy.Why This RoleThis is a unique opportunity for someone who enjoys combining technical manufacturing knowledge with strategic sourcing and supplier management.We're seeking a collaborative, results-oriented professional who can evaluate manufacturing processes, identify capable suppliers, manage complex projects, and build strong relationships across internal and external stakeholders. Success in this role requires both technical credibility and the ability to influence outcomes without direct authority.The ideal candidate has experience in machining, CNC programming, manufacturing engineering, outsourced manufacturing, or industrial purchasing, and understands the challenges of supporting production in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.What You'll OwnSupplier sourcing, qualification, and performance management programsProcurement of outsourced machining, heat treat, and manufacturing servicesVendor quality, on-time delivery, and cost performance metricsDevelopment of supplier relationships and vendor management systemsManufacturing outsourcing strategies that support production requirements and customer commitmentsWhat You'll DoEvaluate manufacturing requirements, identify capable suppliers, develop RFQs, evaluate quotations, and place work with qualified vendorsMonitor supplier quality, delivery, and pricing performance while resolving issues that impact production schedules or customer requirementsPartner with cross-functional teams to support new product introductions, project deliverables, production priorities, and customer expectationsDevelop and maintain strong supplier partnerships that create long-term value for both Scot Forge and its vendorsMonitor shop workloads and identify opportunities to strategically subcontract work to support capacity and delivery objectivesHelp develop and improve purchasing processes, ERP workflows, vendor management systems, and sourcing practicesWhat We're Looking ForAssociate's degree in a technical manufacturing discipline or equivalent experienceMinimum of 7 years of experience in machining, CNC programming, manufacturing, or a related technical fieldPurchasing experience, particularly involving outsourced machining or manufacturing services, strongly preferredStrong understanding of manufacturing processes, machining operations, inspection methods, and GD&TProven ability to build relationships and effectively influence colleagues, suppliers, and customers at all organizational levelsExperience with supplier management, project management, negotiation, cost analysis, or vendor development preferredBachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field preferredMust be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship and able to pass a pre-employment drug screeningWhy Scot Forge100% employee-owned industry leader in forged and engineered metal productsOpportunity to play a critical role in supporting manufacturing operations and customer successExposure to a wide range of manufacturing processes, suppliers, and strategic sourcing initiativesHigh-impact position with visibility across Operations, Engineering, Quality, and SalesStrong commitment to employee development, continuous improvement, and operational excellenceStable, growing organization with a long-term ownership mindsetReady to Make an Impact?If you're a manufacturing professional who enjoys solving complex supply chain challenges, building strong supplier partnerships, and supporting world-class manufacturing operations, we'd like to connect.CompensationWe offer a comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Hearing, Life Insurance, Disability, 401(k) with company match, Profit Sharing, ESOP, FSA/HSA programs, paid time off, vacation, and paid holidays.Scot Forge is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and inclusion and welcome all qualified candidates to apply.We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.