Buyer I

About the role

The Buyer I is responsible for procuring direct materials required to support production schedules and inventory objectives. Working under general supervision, the Buyer I executes purchasing activities for assigned materials and suppliers, manages routine supplier communications and supports continuity of supply through effective order management and issue resolution. The role collaborates with Planning, Manufacturing, Quality and Supply Chain teams while developing proficiency in supplier management and direct material procurement.

Responsibilities

• Procures direct materials to support production schedules, customer demand and inventory targets.
• Reviews MRP recommendations and converts planned orders into purchase orders within the ERP system.
• Maintains accurate purchase order dates, pricing, lead times and supplier information within the ERP system.
• Manages supplier order placement, confirmations, expedites and delivery commitments to ensure material availability.
• Communicates order requirements and delivery schedule changes to suppliers to ensure material availability.
• Collaborates with Production Planning, Manufacturing, Quality and Warehouse teams to proactively resolve material shortages and supply disruptions.
• Investigates and resolves routine invoice discrepancies, shipment issues and delivery concerns, escalating complex supplier performance issues as appropriate.
• Supports the monitoring of supplier performance and escalates recurring delivery, quality, or service concerns.
• Supports inventory objectives through timely purchasing actions and maintenance of appropriate inventory levels.
• Supports routine pricing updates and purchasing activities using established supplier agreements and commercial terms.
• Supports new product introductions, material qualifications and supplier onboarding activities.
• Identifies opportunities for process improvements and cost savings opportunities and communicates recommendations to Procurement leadership.
• Ensures compliance with cGMP requirements and company procurement policies.

Requirements

Associate's Degree with 0 - 2+ years of related experience required; OR High School diploma with 4+ years of related experience.

Travel Requirement: Up to 5% travel required.

Skills

• Proficiency in ERP purchasing processes and order management.
• Knowledge of supply chain, procurement, manufacturing and production planning processes.
• Ability to analyze demand requirements, supplier lead times and inventory levels to support production needs.
• Understanding of procurement fundamentals and basic commercial considerations.
• Ability to execute purchasing transactions accurately and efficiently.
• Ability to manage routine supplier communications and follow-up activities.
• Developing supplier relationship management and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to recognize potential supply risks and escalate concerns appropriately.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel and ERP reporting tools.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and follow-up skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple competing demands in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across Operations, Planning, Quality and Supply Chain functions.

Schedule

This position is not eligible for a flexible schedule. This position is eligible for remote / hybrid work location.