We are currently seeking an Associate Buyer who is responsible for commodities or assignments requiring application of basic purchasing principles, theories, and concepts. The Associate Buyer ensures timely purchase of products or services from known sources of supply. Additionally, the individual may resolve issues in the areas of PO accuracy and completeness, on-time delivery, or supplier payment. The Associate Buyer will be required to manipulate data in various systems to determine the most favorable terms for Parata. The Associate Buyer will help search markets for allocated, constrained and End of Life parts. They will work to validate source of supply and background research on new suppliers. Strong attention to detail, adaptability, communication, and a willingness to work in a collaborative team environment are skills that will support a high level of success in this position.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Buyer in the expediting and validation of incoming PO’s.
• Search the market for constrained, allocated, and End of Life parts.
• Work with the Strategic Commodity Managers to validate source of supply and do background research on potential suppliers.
• Resolve purchasing problems between department and supplier.
• Confer with vendors, receiving, warehouse, and carrier personnel to expedite and trace missing/delayed shipments.
• Assist the buyer in the maintenance and accuracy of ship dates and pricing in our ERP system.
• Support management objectives by running KPI’s and supplier performance.
• Manage follow-up resolution with external departments and/or supplier to correct Accounts Payable invoice issues.
• Develop and maintain accurate point of contact data for all suppliers.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills and Experience

• Minimum of 1-2 years of purchasing experience, preferably in a manufacturing setting and/or a bachelor’s degree in supply chain, business, economics or other related field with other applicable intern or work experience
• Previous experience utilizing MRP, supply chain management software and tools- Great Plains preferred
• Demonstrated ability to use logic and problem-solving skills to independently isolate and identify opportunities in reporting/analysis
• Excellent communication skills; ability to work across a variety of departments and external suppliers
• Self-starter, organized, and motivated team player
• Proven analysis and presentation skills including use of common tools such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Proficient Excel skills, including use of pivot tables and advanced functions/concepts

Work environment and physical demands

• The characteristics described below are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position. When properly requested and when feasible (without undue hardship to the company), reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
• Work will primarily be in an office setting with limited opportunities to be exposed to adverse environmental conditions.
• Work will be primarily working with fingers by picking, pinching, typing, and grasping often with repetitive motion.
• Must have visual acuity for viewing a computer screen, the ability to talk, hear and sit for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to carry, lift and push/pull up to 5 pounds frequently and up to 30 pounds occasionally.
• Additional physical duties may be required as necessary.
• While COVID-19 precautions are in effect, this role requires use of face masks/face coverings while working in our facilities.

Job Types: Part-time, Contract

Pay: Up to $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 30 per week

Work Location: In person