Buyer

Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What's your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense it's the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential. Discover what it's like to be a part of the Fairbanks Morse Defense team here: https://www.fairbanksmorsedefense.com/careers

Bird-Johnson Propeller Company - Buyer
Reports To: Procurement Manager

Location: Walpole, MA

Company: Bird-Johnson Propeller Company - A Fairbanks Morse Defense Company

Job Summary

As a Buyer for Bird-Johnson Propeller Company, you will be responsible for sourcing and purchasing materials, components, and services needed to support the production of marine propulsion systems for defense applications. In this role, you'll work closely with internal teams and external suppliers to ensure timely and cost-effective procurement while maintaining the highest quality standards.

This on-site role requires strong negotiation skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Prior experience in procurement, particularly within manufacturing or defense industries, is highly desired.

Key Accountabilities:

• Execute purchase orders for materials, equipment, and services based on production and operational requirements.

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure reliable and cost-effective sourcing.
• Evaluate supplier performance and negotiate pricing, contracts, and delivery terms to achieve the best value for the company.
• Research and identify new suppliers to strengthen the supply chain and support company growth.
• Stay informed about market trends, pricing fluctuations, and industry developments to make strategic purchasing decisions.

• Ensure all purchasing activities align with company policies and applicable regulations, including U.S. Government and defense-related requirements (e.g., FAR/DFARS, CPSR).

• Partner with cross-functional teams, including engineering, finance, and operations, to align procurement activities with project and program needs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 2 years of experience in purchasing, buying, or supply chain management, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (Infor Visual preferred) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a defense or government contracting environment.
• Knowledge and understanding of FAR/DFARS, CPSR compliance requirements.
• Experience with reporting and data visualization (ex. Power BI)
• Commodity/product/service knowledge relevant to the marine and defense industries.

Fairbanks Morse Defense offers a competitive benefits package including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, and 401k retirement plan with employer match. In addition, we offer paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled