Senior Buyer

About the role

The Senior Buyer is responsible for leading purchasing and procurement activities to support manufacturing operations and production schedules at Apex GeoTech Solutions, with particular emphasis on the steel pipe commodity categories. This role goes beyond day-to-day purchase order execution to include supplier negotiation, sourcing strategy, and category management, while also ensuring material availability, ERP system accuracy, and on-time delivery of materials and services. The ideal candidate brings hands-on manufacturing procurement experience, preferably within the steel business, is highly organized and detail-oriented, and is capable of operating in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while maintaining strong supplier relationships, mentoring junior buyers, and driving cross-departmental communication.

Responsibilities

• Purchasing & Procurement Execution: Create, issue, and manage purchase orders within the ERP/MRP system. Ensure timely procurement of raw materials, components, supplies, and services based on demand signals, production schedules, min/max levels, reorder points, and MRP recommendations. Monitor and maintain open purchase orders to ensure accurate delivery commitments. Work closely with suppliers to confirm pricing, lead times, and shipment schedules. Assist in identifying alternate suppliers and sourcing opportunities when necessary.
• Strategic Sourcing & Steel Pipe Category Management: Manage purchasing of steel and steel pipe, including grade/spec selection, mill and distributor relationships, and mill certification requirements. Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms with steel mills, service centers, and pipe suppliers to reduce cost and mitigate market volatility. Mentor junior buyers and serve as the internal subject-matter expert on steel and steel pipe procurement.
• Material Availability & Production Support: Monitor inventory levels and assist in preventing material shortages and production interruptions. Expedite purchase orders and shipments as needed to support manufacturing requirements and customer commitments. Communicate shortages, delays, or supply risks to the Director of Supply Chain, Plant Manager, and cross-functional stakeholders. Coordinate with operations, production, and warehouse teams