Associate Buyer

Position Summary

The Associate Buyer reports to the Operations Manager and is primarily responsible for purchase order placement through our ERP, expediting shorts, and purchase order confirmation follow‑ups. The role works closely with suppliers, planners, and manufacturing personnel to ensure a seamless supply flow and assists with cycle counting and root‑cause analysis of inventory discrepancies.

Essential Functions

• Prepare purchase order requisitions and issue purchase orders through the MRP system.
• Follow up on order confirmations for issued purchase orders and any pending late purchase order requests.
• Expedite orders as required to meet customer request dates.
• Communicate with Planning, Customer Service, and the Operations team on status of pending items.
• Coordinate returns of non‑conforming material and communicate with suppliers on non‑standard product receipts.
• Assist in processing discrepancies related to cycle counting, receipt verifications, and accounts payable.
• Track and follow up on inventory issues arising from daily cycle counts; drive root‑cause analysis and implement countermeasures.
• Maintain and organize physical stocking locations in the ERP system for efficient picking, inventories, and cycle counts.
• Drive continuous‑improvement activities to increase efficiency.
• Practice good inventory management through sound buying practices.
• Manage multiple priorities in a continuously changing environment.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• BA/BS degree in business, supply chain, or engineering (preferred).
• 1+ years of buying/procurement experience, preferably in a manufacturing setting.
• Experience purchasing low‑volume, high‑precision engineered commodities (preferred).
• C.P.M. or A.P.P. certification desired.
• Experience with MRP systems (JDE preferred) desirable.
• Experience with global supply chain management preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Excel, MS Word, and Outlook.

Competencies

• Adaptability & Flexibility – Adjusts effectively to changing priorities, new processes, or shifting business needs with a positive, solutions‑focused approach.
• Attention to Detail – Completes work with accuracy and thoroughness, identifying errors or inconsistencies and maintaining a high standard of quality.
• Collaboration & Teamwork – Works cooperatively with individuals and teams across the organization, contributing to a supportive and productive work environment.
• Communication Skills – Clearly conveys information verbally and in writing, ensuring understanding among coworkers, leadership, and external partners.
• Problem Solving – Evaluates issues, identifies root causes, and develops practical solutions to resolve challenges and improve efficiency.

Physical Environment and Environmental Factors

This onsite position involves work in both an office setting and on the manufacturing floor. Approximately 25% of the time is spent in production areas where required personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn. The role requires regular use of standard office equipment and the ability to move between environments to attend meetings, observe operations, access materials, and communicate with employees. Lifting requirements are generally less than 25 lb, with occasional lifts up to 40 lb. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Pay

The compensation range for this position is $48,000.00 – $72,000.00, depending on experience. This position may be eligible for a performance‑based bonus plan.

Benefits

• Health benefits
• 401(k) retirement savings program with company match
• Paid time off (PTO) and additional leave options
• Other comprehensive U.S. benefit offerings as detailed on the company’s career page