What are the responsibilities and job description for the Buyer position at Big Dutchman?
At Big Dutchman, our motto “Taking action for future generations” drives everything we do. For over 80 years, we’ve been shaping the future of agriculture in more than 100 countries with innovative, high-tech solutions for egg, poultry, and pig production.
As a global leader, we’re proud to empower farmers around the world to feed the planet more sustainably. With more than 3,400 employees across five continents, we are committed to animal-friendly and efficient farming practices that serve both people and the planet.
If you're looking for a purpose-driven role in a forward-thinking company that values its people and impact, we invite you to join our team as a:
Buyer
Position Summary
The Buyer plays a vital role in driving cost efficiency and supply chain performance by managing the procurement of goods and services. This position focuses on minimizing the total cost of ownership through strategic supplier negotiations, proactive cost-reduction initiatives, and effective collaboration across departments. The Buyer communicates regularly with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure material availability, maintain pricing accuracy, and support customer expectations through optimized purchasing practices.
Responsibilities and Duties
- Negotiate with suppliers to secure favorable pricing, delivery terms, and overall value.
- Collaborate with internal departments to align purchasing activities with customer order requirements and company goals.
- Lead and execute cost-reduction projects focused on optimizing supply chain efficiency.
- Generate and manage Requests for Quotation (RFQs) for required materials and services.
- Monitor and manage supplier performance related to order confirmations, pricing accuracy, and on-time delivery.
- Utilize MRP systems to maintain appropriate inventory levels and minimize excess stock.
- Actively work to reduce material shortages that could impact customer orders.
- Ensure suppliers meet the company’s quality, cost, and delivery standards.
- Support cross-functional teams by sharing supplier insights and contributing to continuous improvement efforts.
Qualifications and Skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Operations, or related field preferred.
- Prior experience in purchasing or procurement is preferred.
- Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
- Ability to perform in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
- Proficient in MRP systems and data analysis to support purchasing decisions.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Demonstrated problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to challenges.
- Team-oriented mindset with a focus on collaboration and results.
- Professional certifications such as CPM or CPIM are a plus.
Why Big Dutchman North America?
At Big Dutchman, we’re more than just a workplace — we’re a global community of innovators, problem-solvers, and future-shapers. Whether you're in the warehouse, in the field, or behind a desk, your work helps farmers feed the world more efficiently and sustainably.
What We Offer:
- A supportive company culture with global reach
- Competitive compensation and benefits
- Career growth opportunities in a forward-thinking industry
- A purpose-driven mission: "Taking action for future generations"
- A chance to be part of something bigger — and have fun doing it
Ready to make a real impact with your work? Let’s build a better future, together.
Other job titles include: Procurement Buyer, Strategic Sourcing Specialist, Purchasing Specialist, Procurement Specialist, Supply Chain Buyer, Strategic Buyer, Indirect Procurement Buyer, Direct Materials Buyer, Commodity Buyer, Category Buyer, Category Management Specialist, Sourcing Analyst, Supplier Relationship Specialist, Vendor Management Specialist, Supply Chain Procurement Specialist, Materials Planner/Buyer, MRP Buyer, Purchasing Analyst, Cost Reduction Analyst – Procurement, RFQ/Quoting Specialist, Supplier Performance Analyst, Procurement Operations Specialist, Purchasing Coordinator, Supply Chain Coordinator – Procurement, Tactical Buyer, Operational Buyer, Global Sourcing Specialist, Strategic Procurement Analyst, Procurement Negotiations Specialist, Supply Management Specialist, Procurement and Inventory Specialist, Purchasing and Logistics Specialist, Supplier Quality and Delivery Specialist, Procurement Project Specialist, Cost Optimization Buyer, Purchasing Agent, Senior Buyer, Lead Buyer, Junior Buyer
Big Dutchman, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer
True to the motto „Think global, act local“. Big Dutchman develops trendsetting equipment for fattening poultry, laying hens and pigs. Our name has been a trademark for innovation, high-tech and quality for 85 years. Today, the family-owned enterprise with headquarters in Vechta, Germany, offers it's products and services in more than 100 countries. And we continue growing worldwide, thanks to our clever concepts and more than 3.100 employees.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) 3% Match
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person