The Buyer works under the supervision of the Purchasing Manager and is responsible for source selection and procurement functions directly associated with the company's needs for materials, services and select production materials and services. These products and services include machinery parts for corrugated and finishing equipment and need to be secured at cost quality and at company performance standards. The position is further responsible for the timely planning and scheduling of materials delivery and inventory control.

 RESPONSIBILITIES

• Initiates purchase orders and amendments for parts, services and/or special tools; arranges for submission and inspection of sample products as required; maintains close coordination with engineering to ensure timely execution of product and services sourcing activities.
• Secures and analyzes quotations, negotiates prices and terms with suppliers, and recommends suppliers with respect to cost, quality and delivery competitiveness for assigned responsibilities.
• Studies manufacturing method improvements applicable to assigned responsibilities; advises company activities with concurrence of the Purchasing Manager.
• Interviews and confers with current and prospective suppliers to determine supply capabilities, transportation logistics inventory control and management; negotiates prices and delivery terms with guidance from the Purchasing Manager.
• Coordinates as appropriate quality matters and engineering changes/developments between company activities and suppliers. Works closely with Production Control, Engineering, Accounting, and Quality departments.
• Visits suppliers’ facilities to qualify them as new sources and assists in the resolution of production, design, quality and/or delivery problems.

 QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelors in Engineering Discipline, Industrial Distribution/Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management or Business.
• Previous experience in an industrial material supply chain and/or purchasing role in a manufacturing industry preferred.
• Ability to read mechanical blueprints preferred.
• Experience in identifying new suppliers and new technology as appropriate to support product plans and current production.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience with an ERP-type inventory / purchasing system.
• Strong skills in the use of Word, Excel or similar computer applications in a Windows environment.
• High level of competence in written and oral communication skills, analytical problem solving, decisiveness, and planning is required.