Operational Buyer

Department: Procurement | FLSA Status: Salaried, Exempt | Working Status: Full Time

About the role

We are a chemicals manufacturing plant looking for an Operational Buyer to join our team. We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized professional with strong transactional procurement experience. The successful candidate will support day-to-day purchasing activities, ensure timely procurement of goods and services, and maintain effective communication with internal stakeholders and suppliers. The role requires the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage competing priorities, and uphold procurement policies and processes.

Responsibilities

• Execute day-to-day purchasing activities including purchase order creation, order tracking, and invoice resolution.
• Process requisitions and convert them into purchase orders in ERP systems (e.g., SAP).
• Support spot buys and low-to-medium complexity sourcing activities to ensure uninterrupted site operations.
• Have a good understanding of chemical purchases and experience with direct and indirect chemicals.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date master data in procurement systems including vendor information, pricing, and material records.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders to ensure timely fulfillment of procurement requirements.
• Expedite orders and proactively manage delivery timelines to avoid operational disruptions.
• Resolve issues related to orders, invoices, suppliers, and system discrepancies.
• Support contract implementation and ensure compliance with agreed terms and conditions.
• Maintain strong working relationships with suppliers and monitor basic supplier performance metrics.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, procedures, and audit requirements.
• Assist with onboarding new suppliers and maintaining supplier documentation.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to procurement processes and automation.
• Participate in data collection, reporting, and KPI tracking activities.
• Collaborate with Category Managers and Site Procurement team to support sourcing strategies.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and process efficiencies within operational buying scope.

Skills

• Proficiency in ERP systems such as SAP and Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Outlook, etc.).
• Strong understanding of procure-to-pay (P2P) processes.
• Ability to manage transactional procurement activities efficiently and accurately.
• Basic knowledge of sourcing procedures, contracts, and supplier management.
• Strong attention to detail and data accuracy.
• Ability to analyze data and support reporting activities.
• Familiarity with procurement policies and compliance requirements.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Problem-solving mindset with the ability to escalate issues when required.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities under pressure.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business Administration, Finance, or related field is preferred.
• 2–5 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain operations.
• Experience working with ERP systems such as SAP.
• Demonstrated experience in transactional procurement activities.
• Experience in supplier coordination and order management processes.
• Experience in data management, reporting, and process compliance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Relevant certifications (e.g., CPSM or equivalent) are a plus.
• Experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment is preferred.