About this role
Position Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented Buyer to join our manufacturing team. The ideal candidate will have experience in purchasing raw materials, components, and production supplies within a manufacturing environment. This individual must be highly analytical, comfortable working with MRP/ERP systems, and able to use data to drive purchasing decisions, inventory optimization, and supplier performance.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan and execute purchasing activities to support production schedules and customer demand.
- Utilize MRP recommendations to maintain optimal inventory levels while minimizing excess inventory.
- Issue purchase orders, monitor supplier acknowledgments, and ensure on-time deliveries.
- Analyze inventory trends, demand forecasts, and supplier performance using ERP data and reporting tools.
- Work closely with Production Planning, Operations, Engineering, and Quality to resolve material shortages and supply issues.
- Negotiate pricing, lead times, and delivery schedules with suppliers.
- Maintain accurate supplier, item, pricing, and lead-time information within the ERP system.
- Monitor supplier performance metrics, including quality, delivery, and cost.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives related to inventory management, procurement processes, and data accuracy.
- Assist with cycle counts, inventory reconciliation, and annual physical inventories as needed.
- Develop reports and dashboards to support purchasing and inventory decisions.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 3+ years of purchasing or buying experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of MRP planning , inventory control, and production scheduling.
- Experience using ERP/MRP systems in a manufacturing setting.
- Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and data analysis.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and negotiation abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 , Dynamics AX, Business Central, or NAV.
- APICS/ASCM CPIM or CSCP certification.
- Experience purchasing machined parts, fabricated components, electrical components, or industrial materials.
- Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Experience creating purchasing metrics and KPI dashboards using Power BI or Excel.
Key Competencies
- MRP Planning
- ERP Systems (Microsoft Dynamics preferred)
- Inventory Analysis
- Supplier Management
- Purchasing & Procurement
- Data Analysis
- Forecasting
- Production Planning Support
- Cost Management
- Attention to Detail