Procurement Specialist/Buyer

Procurement Specialist

The Procurement Specialist is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing raw materials, packaging, MRO supplies, and production-related services required for plastic extrusion operations. This role works closely with production, planning, quality, engineering, and suppliers to ensure uninterrupted material flow, cost competitiveness, and supplier performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and procure resin, additives, colorants, packaging materials, and indirect supplies for manufacturing operations.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, payment terms, and delivery schedules with suppliers.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate replenishment activities to avoid production shortages.
• Issue purchase orders and maintain accurate purchasing records within ERP/MRP systems.
• Evaluate supplier performance related to quality, delivery, responsiveness, and cost.
• Collaborate with production scheduling and planning teams to support customer demand requirements.
• Assist in identifying alternative suppliers and materials to improve cost savings and supply continuity.
• Work with quality and engineering teams on material qualifications and supplier corrective actions.
• Analyze market trends and raw material pricing, especially polymer and resin markets.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to inventory reduction and procurement efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with company purchasing policies and applicable regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Manufacturing, or related field preferred.
• 3–5 years of procurement or purchasing experience in manufacturing; plastics or extrusion industry experience strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of plastic resins, additives, and extrusion manufacturing processes is highly desirable.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and supplier management skills.
• Excellent communication and organizational abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Preferred Skills

• Understanding of supply chain planning and inventory control principles.
• Familiarity with ISO quality systems and manufacturing documentation.
• Ability to analyze procurement metrics and generate reports.
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement exposure is a plus.

Working Conditions

This position operates primarily in an office environment within a manufacturing facility. Occasional exposure to production areas, noise, heat, and industrial equipment may occur.

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation is competitive and based on experience. Benefits may include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and performance incentives.