Buyer I

Purchasing Role

Purchases materials, equipment, supplies and services of a specialized or complex nature in accordance with prescribed purchasing regulations and procedures.

Processes purchasing transactions according to policies established by UE policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Evaluates and analyzes purchase requisitions for completeness and accuracy of information; contacts department or initiator to clarify or complete information; determines method to process requisition based on dollar amount, timeliness required, existing open contracts, and/or competitive bidding.
• Selects vendors to procure requisitioned commodities, meeting criteria such as price, quantity, quality, and delivery date and then places orders to meet production schedule and customer requirements.
• Negotiates with suppliers to ensure best pricing and delivery.
• Reviews and works PO suggestions daily.
• Provides reports as required.
• Maintains orders to ensure on-time delivery. Resolves issues on delivery, price, and quality if they occur and informs all parties affected.
• Reviews reports for stock outs and expedites open orders.
• Reviews and maintains order points for inventory stock levels.
• Identifies needs and develops and refines specifications for commodities, supplies or equipment.
• Develops new sources of supply, securing favorable terms for the Company; updates records and files and secures samples, descriptions, photos or information for review and records.
• Interprets and communicates purchasing procedures; initiates requisitions and orders and solves problems with orders.
• Writes and distributes complex and technical bid invitations or requests for proposals; receives and analyzes bids, quotes, proposals, and awards the contract.
• Solves purchasing problems with vendors.
• Maintains awareness of price increases and communicates changes as necessary.

Requirements

• High school diploma/general education degree (GED) or equivalent combination of education and experience required.
• Preferred degree in business or a technical field.
• 1-3 years of experience as a buyer preferred.
• Knowledge of purchasing practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of materials, products, and the commodity market in area of specialization.
• Skills in preparing and analyzing complex technical specifications and bids.
• Skills in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
• Prefer candidates with a working knowledge of warehouse and inventory operations.
• Experience with and knowledge of inventory software and programs.
• Strong calculative and analytical skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be able to meet required deadlines and manage time effectively.
• Able to utilize desktop computer systems, hardware, and operating systems.

Physical Activities & Requirements

• Standard Office Environment
• Must be able to sit for long periods of time
• Able to lift up to 25 lbs
• Work in an air-conditioned office
• Outside work
• In a manufacturing environment
• Requires manual dexterity sufficient to work with fingers, reaching or handling with arms, hands, and fingers
• Will be required to work more than 8 hours in one shift