What are the responsibilities and job description for the Technical Buyer position at KEB America, Inc.?
Company Description KEB America, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of industrial automation products, including industrial PCs, HMIs, I/O modules, VFDs, motors, gearmotors, and clutches and brakes. The company employs approximately 125 people and provides full design, assembly, and manufacturing at its ISO 9001:2015 certified 150,000 sq. ft. facility in Shakopee, Minnesota. KEB America is part of KEB Automation KG, a global organization headquartered in Barntrup, Germany. The broader KEB group operates four production sites across Germany, the U.S., China, and Japan, supported by multiple subsidiaries, sales, and service centers worldwide. Team members benefit from working within a stable, international company focused on quality, innovation, and customer service in industrial automation.
Role Description The Technical Buyer is a full-time, on-site role based in Shakopee, MN, responsible for sourcing and procuring components and materials that meet engineering and production requirements. Day-to-day tasks include managing purchasing processes, creating and tracking purchase orders, and coordinating with suppliers to ensure timely delivery and optimal pricing. This role involves evaluating suppliers for quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, as well as participating in purchasing and contract negotiations to secure favorable terms. The Technical Buyer collaborates closely with engineering, production, and logistics teams to align material availability with project timelines and inventory goals. The position also includes maintaining accurate procurement records, monitoring market trends, and contributing to continuous improvement of purchasing practices and supplier relationships.
Qualifications
- Candidates should possess skills in Purchasing Processes and Purchase Orders, including requisition handling, order creation, and tracking within ERP or MRP systems.
- Candidates should possess skills in Purchasing Negotiation and Contract Negotiation to secure competitive pricing, lead times, and terms while maintaining strong supplier relationships.
- Candidates should possess skills in Supplier Evaluation, including assessment of quality, delivery performance, compliance, and total cost of ownership.
- Relevant technical aptitude to understand industrial automation components, drawings, and specifications, and to communicate effectively with engineering and production teams.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a manufacturing environment.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills and the ability to collaborate in cross-functional teams.
- Experience in industrial or manufacturing purchasing is preferred; familiarity with ISO-certified environments is beneficial.
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in supply chain, business, engineering, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and purchasing experience.