Sr. Buyer

Position Summary:

We are seeking a Senior Buyer to join our fast-paced manufacturing team. This role is responsible for executing day-to-day purchasing activities, managing material shortages, and driving continuous improvement in purchasing processes. The ideal candidate will bring strong data analysis skills, ERP experience, and a passion for problem solving in a Lean manufacturing environment. While experience with raw metals and electronic components is a plus, this role supports a diverse range of materials and suppliers.

Key Responsibilities:

Purchasing Execution

• Place and manage purchase orders for a wide range of production and indirect materials.
• Ensure timely delivery of materials to meet production schedules.
• Communicate with suppliers to confirm orders, expedite shipments, and resolve delivery issues.
• Utilize Dynamic Kanban strategies within ERP or planning systems to support pull-based replenishment, reduce inventory, and respond to changing demand signals.

Shortage Management

• Monitor material availability and proactively address shortages.
• Collaborate with Production, and Logistics teams to prioritize and resolve critical part issues.
• Escalate supplier-related delays or constraints to Tier 2 and Tier 3 discussions

Supplier Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key and problem suppliers to improve delivery performance, responsiveness, and communication.
• Foster a “help them help us” mindset by working collaboratively with suppliers to understand their constraints and support their improvement efforts.
• Work closely with the Sourcing team to align on supplier strategies, escalate chronic issues, and support supplier development initiatives.
• Participate in supplier performance reviews and contribute to corrective action planning when needed.

Continuous Improvement & Lean Practices

• Lead or participate in Kaizen events and cross-functional improvement initiatives.
• Identify and eliminate waste in purchasing processes through Lean tools and standard work.
• Lead and support the development of visual management and process documentation.

Required Qualifications:

• A Bachelor of Science in business/supply chain or an Engineering degree
• 5+ years of experience in a purchasing role within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong Excel skills and a solid background in data analysis.
• Hands-on experience with ERP systems (e.g., JDE, Oracle, SAP).
• Strong communication, follow-up, and organizational skills.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and efficiently with minimal supervision

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience purchasing materials in an electro-mechanical environment
• Power BI experience at an intermediate level (or minimum basic understanding).
• Familiarity with Lean tools such as standard work, visual management, etc..
• APICS/CPIM or similar supply chain certifications.