We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Buyer to join our manufacturing team. In this crucial role, you will be responsible for procuring the necessary materials, supplies, and services required to support our manufacturing operations.  If you are proactive, possess excellent communication skills, and have a passion for optimizing supply chains within a manufacturing environment, we invite you to apply and become part of our dedicated team focused on excellence and continuous improvement.

Pay Range: $75k to $85k

Position Summary:

Supports purchasing activities to ensure raw materials, components, and supplies are available to support production and customer requirements. Works closely with Supply Chain, Planning, Production, Engineering, Quality, and suppliers while developing knowledge of purchasing processes, ERP systems, supplier management, and inventory control.

Responsibilities:

• Assist with purchasing materials, components, supplies, and services based on production requirements, inventory levels, and approved purchasing plans.
• Create and maintain purchase orders and requisitions in the ERP/MRP system.
• Monitor purchase orders and supplier commitments to ensure timely delivery of materials.
• Communicate with suppliers regarding order status, delivery dates, shortages, and other purchasing requirements.
• Coordinate with Planning and Production to identify and address material shortages or potential production interruptions.
• Review material requirements and inventory information to support purchasing decisions.
• Maintain accurate supplier, purchase order, pricing, and delivery information in the ERP system.
• Assist with obtaining supplier quotes and comparing pricing, lead times, and availability.
• Support resolution of receiving, quality, quantity, pricing, and invoice discrepancies with suppliers and internal departments.
• Develop working relationships with suppliers and maintain professional communication.
• Assist with monitoring inventory levels and identifying excess, obsolete, slow-moving, or shortage conditions.
• Prepare purchasing reports and maintain accurate purchasing records.
• Support cost-reduction, supplier performance, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Education and Experience:

• Associate degree, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience in Supply Chain, Business, Purchasing, Finance, Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field preferred.
• Previous purchasing, manufacturing, supply chain, inventory, customer service, or administrative experience preferred but not required.
• Basic Microsoft Excel and computer skills.
• Willingness and ability to learn ERP/MRP systems and purchasing processes.
• APICS/ASCM coursework or certification is a plus but not required.
• Previous ERP or Oracle experience is a plus.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and follow-up skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Basic analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to review data and identify potential shortages, delays, or discrepancies.
• Professional and effective communication with suppliers and internal departments.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional manufacturing environment.
• Ability to negotiate and resolve routine purchasing issues with guidance.
• Flexible, dependable, and willing to learn new processes and systems.

Commitment to safety, quality, Lean/6S, and continuous improvement