BUYER

Position Summary

The Buyer I position is responsible for the accurate and timely procurement of Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) items, select Bill of Materials (BOM) items, and some raw materials. This role is assigned specific commodities and inventory items and is accountable for managing stock levels, supplier performance, and replenishment processes.

Responsibilities include supporting Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI), visual point-of-use replenishment, ad hoc procurement requests, and issuing Material Requirements Planning (MRP) purchase orders. The primary objective is to maintain consistent product availability—avoiding stockouts—while ensuring inventory levels are optimized and costs remain low. The Buyer II collaborates closely with suppliers and internal stakeholders to meet all performance standards. As experience grows, assignments may increase in complexity, scope, and responsibility.

Required Outcomes

• Achieve annual cost-reduction goals established by the department.

• Maintain >95% On-Time Delivery (OTD) with all assigned suppliers.

• Ensure zero production downtime due to material shortages within assigned commodities or suppliers.

What Makes You a Great Fit

• 0–3 years of related experience in purchasing, manufacturing, or equivalent education.

• Ability to interpret specifications and technical drawings (preferred).

• Experience with Infor ERP systems (preferred).

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) (preferred).

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field (preferred).

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and solve problems effectively.

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Set up and manage Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) programs.

• Source and procure MRO items through the most cost-effective and timely channels.

• Process and release purchase orders on time for assigned BOM items.

• Understand and validate all required PO information, including supplier quotes, shipping options, and delivery requirements.

• Participate in—and occasionally lead—cost-reduction initiatives.

• Prevent stockouts by:

  • Minimizing delays during supplier onboarding and quoting.

  • Reviewing on-hand inventory against future demand to ensure sufficient material availability.

  • Anticipating future needs based on historical usage and forecasted demand.

• Support the Sales team by providing:

  • Supplier recommendations.

  • Minimum order quantities (MOQs) and lead times.

  • Pricing information and available volume discounts.

• Assist employees with inquiries regarding item locations, lead times, order status, and similar questions.

• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by management.