Buyer

About the role

The Buyer will obtain materials and services from suppliers at the lowest cost consistent with considerations of quality, reliability of source and urgency of need. Duties will be performed in accordance with standard purchasing concepts, practices and procedures. The ability to negotiate contract terms, analyze data, build relationships, and track vendor performance is essential.

Responsibilities

• Obtain materials and services from suppliers at the lowest cost consistent with considerations of quality, reliability of source and urgency of need
• Analyze inventory data and trends and make adjustments to reorder points accordingly
• Create reports to support inventory data, costs, usage and trends
• Submit purchase orders to vendors in adherence to purchase approval policy, any applicable contracts and ISO guidelines where applicable
• Review and negotiate contract payment terms, pricing, rebates, and shipping costs for both capital expense and service agreements
• Manage item master for assigned vendors, update cost and provide supporting data for changes
• Review quotations, research, and recommend suppliers
• Prepare RFPs and RFQs as needed; prepare service contracts
• Track vendor performance and record data in supplier score card
• Resolve discrepancies and assist inventory control and accounting as needed
• Consult with lab and support departments to ensure quality and usage demands are met
• Reconcile open purchase orders and review on routine basis
• Review shipping methods and costs and explore savings opportunities
• Mitigate risk of supply chain constraints by identifying second source alternatives
• Provide leadership to others through example and sharing of knowledge and skills
• Participate in proactive team efforts to achieve company goals and participate in process improvement
• Use safety precautions in all areas of responsibility; requires handling of flammable, corrosive and potentially hazardous chemicals; may occasionally be required to perform tasks involving exposure to blood and/or body fluid and must follow required handling procedures per OSHA Blood‑Borne Pathogen Standard
• Notify Purchasing Team Lead of any problems or needed repairs immediately
• Perform other duties as required and assigned

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required; Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain or related field preferred
• With a high school diploma/GED, a minimum of three (3) years of experience in a multi‑vendor purchasing environment required; with a Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain or related field, a minimum of one (1) year of experience in a multi‑vendor purchasing environment required
• Experience in a laboratory or healthcare setting preferred

Skills

• ERP system experience preferred; Sage ERP experience a plus
• GPO experience preferred
• Certified Purchasing Professional, APICS, or other purchasing certification preferred
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook and PowerPoint required; experience with Access helpful