Jr. Buyer

About the role

Austin Lighthouse for the Blind is a non-profit organization founded in 1934 to provide opportunities for economic and personal independence for people who are blind, visually impaired, or deaf blind. The organization continues to grow and expand its services to serve blind Texans.

Responsibilities

• Process and manage purchase orders for direct and indirect materials, ensuring accuracy and timely placement.
• Track shipments and monitor delivery schedules to ensure on-time receipt of materials.
• Cook with suppliers regarding order status, pricing, and delivery updates to maintain continuity of supply.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records and documentation, including drop-shipment orders.
• Partner with the purchasing team to identify and evaluate new product and vendor opportunities.
• Support supplier selection and evaluation processes in coordination with lead buyers.
• Aid with Request for Quotation (RFQ) processes, including data gathering and documentation.
• Aid with Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) calculations and pricing analysis under the direction of senior buyers.
• Collaborate with Finance and Accounting to resolve price discrepancies and invoice issues.
• Respond promptly to supply disruptions, coordinating with manufacturing and suppliers to minimize production impact.
• Periodically review cost history and trends within assigned product categories.
• Maintain and generate purchasing reports and analytics to support supply chain decision-making.
• Complies with and assists other employees understand and comply with TAB's policies and procedures.
• Behaves in accordance with the key behaviors aligned with TAB's Core Values of Leadership, Integrity, Growth & Innovation, Heart and Teamwork (LIGHT).
• Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Working knowledge of procurement and purchasing processes, including order management and supplier coordination.
• Ability to communicate effectively with internal teams and external suppliers regarding orders, pricing, and delivery.
• Ability to process purchase orders accurately and track deliveries to ensure timely fulfillment.
• High degree of accuracy in handling orders, data entry, and documentation.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, orders, and deadlines concurrently.
• Ability to support pricing discussions and cost control activities under supervision.
• Ability to extract and analyze purchasing data to identify discrepancies or trends.
• Working knowledge of MRP/ERP systems and their application to purchasing, inventory management, and manufacturing.
• Working knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Working knowledge of ISO-9001 quality system requirements as they relate to materials and purchasing.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Able to read, comprehend and understand information and ideas presented in writing or in alternative form.
• Able to multitask, prioritize, and manage time efficiently.
• Demonstrates sound work ethics.
• Possesses cultural awareness and sensitivity.

Supervisory Responsibility

None.

Communication & Contacts Required

• Internal: Manufacturing leadership, Finance and Accounting, and Sales teams.
• External: Suppliers, vendors, and contract manufacturing partners.

Decision Making/Judgment Required

• Exercises independent judgment in routine purchasing activities, inventory management decisions, and purchase order review.
• Escalates decisions involving significant inventory investment or supplier contract changes to the Supply Chain Department and Cost Accounting Department in accordance with TAB policies and Standard Operating Procedures.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Associate Degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations, Business, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Bachelor's Degree in a related field, or currently in progress.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in purchasing, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Exposure to an ISO-9001 quality system environment.
• Experience with ERP Syteline or comparable platform.
• APICS CPIM or CSCP certification, or active pursuit of certification.

Physical Requirements

• Remain in a stationary position (sit/stand) for 4-8 hours per day.
• Work at a computer workstation for prolonged periods.
• Bend, stoop, and adjust position for approximately 20% of the workday.
• Lift and move up to 25 lbs. occasionally.
• Work in environments with varying temperatures, including warehouse and production areas.

Additional Notes

• Background Check and Drug Screen required.
• Internal and external applicants accepted.
• Verifiable documentation of ability to work in the US.
• Individuals who are blind or visually impaired are encouraged to apply.
• Austin Lighthouse for the Blind, a non-profit organization, is an equal opportunity employer/affirmative action employer.