What are the responsibilities and job description for the Associate Buyer position at TI Automotive?
This role supports procurement activities across a variety of commodities (such as metals, plastics, rubber, electronics). It includes creating and managing purchase orders, resolving invoice and payment issues, supporting supplier communications, coordinating engineering changes and addressing supplier and plant needs after start of production.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Support cost savings initiatives and track performance, ensuring data accuracy.
2. Prepare RFQs/RFPs, analyze supplier quotes, and support sourcing decisions.
3. Participate in sourcing activities and manage purchasing-related engineering with cross-functional teams.
4. Manage purchase orders, updates and blanket orders.
5. Monitor supplier performance; manage escalations for shortage and stop-ships.
6. Resolve invoice discrepancies, short pays, and pricing issues in coordination with suppliers and finance.
7. Track and support Purchase Price Variance (PPV) reporting.
8. Revisit quoted programs for cost improvement opportunities.
9. Maintain system accuracy (pricing, lead times, supplier data)
10. Support supplier resourcing and development activities
11. Identify and support implementation of cost reduction initiatives / VA-VE.
12. Revisit awarded programs for cost improvement opportunities.
Skill Requirements:
1. Basic negotiation and supplier communication skills
2. Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks
3. Analytical ability to compare quotes, track costs, and maintain data accuracy.
4. Effective problem-solving for day-to-day issues (shortages, invoices, delivery).
5. Clear written and verbal communication with cross-functional teams and suppliers.
6. Self-motivated with willingness to learn and take ownership of assigned tasks.
7. Ability to prioritize in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
8. Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint), ERP experience a plus.
9. Team-oriented with a proactive and positive approach.
Education and Experience Requirements:
1. Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field required.
2. 1-4 years buying experience in the automotive arena.