Buyer - Manufacturing and Supply Chain Purchasing

Mark Rite Lines Equipment Company (MRL), headquartered in Billings, Montana, is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of paint marking and pavement maintenance equipment. With over four decades of industry expertise, MRL builds high-performance machinery used for traffic paint application, line removal, and surface preparation. Known for innovation, reliability, and customer-focused solutions, MRL delivers equipment “by stripers, for stripers”—helping professionals around the world achieve precision and productivity on every job.
The Buyer plays a critical role in ensuring uninterrupted manufacturing operations through strategic procurement, supplier management, and inventory planning. This position works closely with Engineering, Production, Inventory Control, Customer Service, and suppliers to secure materials that meet company quality, cost, and delivery expectations while supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
Procure materials, equipment, services, and supplies to support manufacturing operations while meeting quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
Create and manage purchase orders, blanket purchase agreements, and other replenishment methods to maintain efficient material flow.
Source, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers to obtain the best overall value through competitive pricing, quality, service, and delivery performance.
Monitor inventory levels and purchasing activities to balance material availability with inventory investment and carrying costs.
Manage supplier relationships by monitoring quality, delivery, and service performance, resolving issues, and implementing corrective actions when necessary.
Coordinate with Engineering, Production, Inventory Control, Customer Service, and suppliers to ensure timely procurement and support production schedules.
Resolve purchase order discrepancies, supplier delivery issues, pricing concerns, and potential material shortages before they impact operations.
Source outside vendors and job shops for manufactured components, fabricated parts, and specialized services as needed.
Maintain accurate purchasing records and ERP system data while supporting continuous improvement initiatives within the purchasing process.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment by following company safety policies and 5S principles.
Perform other duties, assignments, and special projects as assigned.
Knowledge of purchasing principles, inventory control, and supply chain best practices.
Ability to analyze pricing, supplier quotations, and procurement data.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel.
APICS, CPSM, CPM, or other purchasing or supply chain certifications.
Experience in manufacturing, industrial equipment, or metal fabrication environments.
Experience with supplier negotiations and contract management.
Associate's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations Management, or a related field preferred.
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Three (3) or more years of purchasing, procurement, supply chain, or buyer experience preferred.
Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Ability to occasionally walk through manufacturing and warehouse areas.
Must be able to communicate effectively with suppliers, employees, and customers.
bonus potential

• insurance (life, medical, dental, vision)
• paid holidays
• employer-sponsored Health Savings Account (HSA)
• In addition to excellent career growth opportunities, Federal Signal Corporation offers a wide array of benefits, including bonus potential, insurance (life, medical, dental, vision), paid holidays, paid vacation, employer-sponsored Health Savings Account (HSA), and 401(k) with matching contributions. About Mark Rite Lines Equipment Company, a subsidiary of Federal Signal:

Mark Rite Lines Equipment Company is a leader in the design and manufacturing of high-quality pavement marking equipment, specializing in the production of road striping and maintenance machinery. We serve a wide array of clients, including government agencies, private contractors, and municipalities, providing innovative solutions that enhance roadway safety and operational efficiency. Our commitment to quality, safety, and service excellence has earned us a reputation as a trusted partner in the industry.
Founded in 1901, Federal Signal is a leading global designer and manufacturer of products and total solutions that serve municipal, governmental, industrial and commercial customers. Headquartered in Downers Grove, IL, with manufacturing facilities worldwide, the Company operates two groups: Environmental Solutions and Safety and Security Systems. Qualified applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of, and will receive consideration for employment without regard to, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category, characteristic, or trait under applicable law. If you require reasonable accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resources View email address on click.appcast.io other applications must be submitted online.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities