Buyer III

The Senior Buyer is responsible for purchasing complex components and maintaining open communication with a variety of suppliers. This role works cross‑functionally on component issues, costing or invoicing concerns, new material requirements, receiving inspections, and engineering change orders (ECOs). The Senior Buyer continuously collaborates with suppliers to improve on‑time delivery, raw‑good turns, and cost‑reduction opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Execute standard purchasing processes and strategies, including procure‑to‑pay definition and optimization.
• Support supplier demand forecasting, capacity planning, supply‑base inventory management, supplier replenishment, and procurement transactions.
• Manage supplier on‑time delivery (OTD) performance; maintain system data integrity; measure key indicators such as past‑due purchase orders, open PO acknowledgements, PO expedites, non‑conforming material return cycle time, and supplier invoice resolution.
• Collaborate with Corporate Strategic Sourcing to identify key and preferred suppliers for strategic spend categories.
• Recommend cost‑saving proposals, including make‑versus‑buy analysis, alternative sourcing, step pricing for volume discounts, and vendor evaluation criteria.
• Plan and maintain optimal inventory levels using Plan‑for‑Every‑Part (PFEP) methodology.
• Proactively identify, communicate, and assist with resolving issues that delay material deliveries.
• Coordinate engineering change order (ECO) activities with suppliers and internal support functions.
• Requisition major purchased items and coordinate timely processing of parts finished outside the company.
• Establish and nurture good working relationships with suppliers and internal customers.
• Apply creative problem‑solving approaches to address area‑specific challenges.
• Act as SAP Super User within the functional area.
• Other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field OR equivalent experience in the supply chain function within a similar environment.
• Minimum of 3 years of purchasing, planning, or related experience in a manufacturing setting.

Additional Qualifications

• Proven track record of managing shifting deadlines and priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated skills in problem solving, contract negotiation, and project management.
• Strong analytical and project‑management abilities.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or Supply Chain Management.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems (SAP, Oracle, or equivalent).
• Certification from the Association for Operations Management (APICS).
• Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) designation.
• Previous hands‑on experience using SAP or a comparable ERP platform.