BUYER

JOB TITLE: BUYER 

DEPARTMENT: SUPPLY CHAIN 

REPORTS TO: PURCHASING SUPERVISOR 

CLASSIFICATION: EXEMPT 

PRIMARY FUNCTION 

The Buyer is responsible for sourcing and procuring materials and services in support of engineering, manufacturing, and program requirements. This role manages the full purchase order lifecycle, ensures timely delivery of materials, maintains supplier relationships and performance, and supports compliance with applicable quality standards and contractual requirements. The Buyer works cross-functionally with Project/Program Management, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality to support production schedules and program success, while contributing to continuous improvement of procurement processes in a growing organization.  

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Process purchase requests
• Create and manage purchase orders (POs) for metal stock, hardware, and electronics
• Perform PO schedule management to ensure on-time delivery and expedite as-necessary
• Process return material authorizations (RMAs)
• Source materials based on Project Manager requests and Engineering specifications
• Manage dual sourcing where appropriate
• Maintain and update Approved Supplier List and new supplier approval process
• Monitor supplier performance metrics
• Resolve invoice discrepancies
• Communicate, interface with, and build good relationships with suppliers
• Communicate with Project/Program Managers to status POs
• Communicate with Project/Program Managers, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality regarding purchasing and sourcing decisions
• Interpret and adhere to DFARS, FAR, and other contractual requirements
• Adhere to AS9100 requirements for the purchasing process
• Flexibility to work with existing procurement systems in a small but quickly growing company and provide input as the organization transitions into an MRP system
• Performs related work as assigned, especially as a back-up for coworkers in other purchasing and materials management roles
• Travel as necessary
• Perform other duties as necessary or required

BASIC REQUIREMENTS 

• Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, operations, or related field, and 2-5 years of relevant, or 5 years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of any qualifying degrees
• Ability to plan and manage a high volume of programs/parts numbers in a manufacturing and production environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with proven negotiation skills
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Security Clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong supervisory and leadership skills with the ability to effectively train others
• Ability to prioritize tasks and to delegate them when appropriate
• Understanding of business and management principles
• Continuous improvement mindset with willingness to contribute to and lead process improvements
• Thorough understanding of materials and supplies used in the company
• Proficient with QuickBooks, Microsoft Office Suite, and/or related software