What are the responsibilities and job description for the Buyer-Automation Division position at Steele Solutions?
Steele Solutions, Inc. is the nation's leading designer and manufacturer of steel work platforms and mezzanines. We recently launched our automation division to solve one of the biggest challenges in material handling-controls that are too often rebuilt from scratch, full of delays, and unpredictable at startup. With this launch, we’re looking for a Buyer professional to join our automation team in Atlanta, GA (preferred) or Milwaukee, WI!
Summary
The Technical Buyer for the Controls Division is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing the delivery of materials, components, and assemblies used in the development, installation, and commissioning of controls and electrical systems for automation projects. This role partners closely with Engineering, Field Services, and Project Management teams to ensure the timely, cost-effective, and quality-focused supply of goods needed to support the execution of automation deployments while maintaining strong supplier relationships. *This position could be based out of Milwaukee, WI or Atlanta, GA. TRAVEL: Up to 25% for vendor visits or jobsite support if required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities as management may deem necessary from time to time.
System Architecture & Standardization
- Maintain accurate master data, preferred suppliers, and lead times within the company business system.
- Support the creation and upkeep of preferred vendor lists and catalog pricing for repeatable materials (e.g., panels, wire, VFDs, terminals).
- Align with engineering teams to validate bill of materials (BOMs) and recommend sourcing alternatives.
Technical Leadership & Execution
- Source materials and services based on requisitions, project needs, and lead-time considerations.
- Issue purchase orders and manage confirmations, ensuring alignment with schedule and budget targets.
- Track open orders and expedite critical path items to avoid project delays
- Assist in resolving delivery issues, non-conformances, and invoice discrepancies.
- Team Development & Mentorship
- Collaborate with project and field teams to understand site realities and adjust procurement tactics as needed.
- Share supplier performance feedback to improve cross-functional decision-making.
- Support onboarding and training of future purchasing team members or coordinators.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Coordinate with Project Managers and Field Services to align delivery schedules with project milestones.
- Communicate proactively with Engineering to verify technical specifications for sourced parts.
- Interface with suppliers and logistics teams to ensure on-time delivery of project-critical equipment.
Strategic Growth & Innovation
- Support supplier evaluation and negotiation efforts to drive cost reductions and improve quality.
- Participate in process improvement efforts focused on procurement efficiency, cost reduction, and vendor performance.
- Assist in developing scalable procurement tools and templates as the business grows.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and/or Experience
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or a related field preferred.
- 3–5 years of experience in purchasing or procurement, preferably in an industrial, automation, or manufacturing environment.
- Experience working closely with engineering, project management, and field teams in a fast-paced, project-driven organization.
Other Key Skills
- Strong computer skills including Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and ERP or procurement systems.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and remain detail-oriented under pressure.
- Experience reading technical drawings or understanding component specifications is a plus.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
The position works in an office environment – location Atlanta, GA (preferred)/Milwaukee WI
TRAVEL: Up to 25%
Why You’ll Love Working Here
- A collaborative culture.
- Opportunities to make a real impact as we grow.
- Competitive pay, great benefits, and a great team.
- Celebrations, volunteer days, and moments that make work more than just “work.”...
Are You Ready to Join the SSi Team?