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Job Title: Buyer

Department: Procurement / Supply Chain

Reports To: Procurement Manager

Salary: $23-$30

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Position Summary

The Buyer is responsible for purchasing materials and components to support a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively across departments to ensure materials arrive on time and meet quality and cost expectations. The Buyer partners with Engineering, Scheduling, and Production to help maintain smooth material flow and support changing build plans.

Key Responsibilities

+ Purchase materials and components required for catalog and custom electronic product builds.

+ Maintain good relationships with suppliers to support quality, delivery, and cost requirements.

+ Request and evaluate supplier quotes, negotiate pricing and lead times within established guidelines.

+ Assist in identifying and qualifying new suppliers in coordination with Engineering and Quality teams.

+ Track supplier performance and follow up on delivery or quality issues as needed.

+ Review MRP/ERP demand signals and maintain accurate order data, lead times, and pricing.

+ Support Scheduling, Production, and Engineering teams to address material shortages or changes in product design.

+ Help manage inventory levels by balancing availability with cost and turnover goals.

+ Contribute to cost-saving initiatives through supplier collaboration and efficient purchasing decisions.

+ Stay aware of market trends, supply risks, and lead-time changes for key components.

+ Follow company purchasing policies and promote ethical sourcing practices.

Qualifications

+ Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field preferred; equivalent experience accepted.

+ 1-3 years of purchasing experience in manufacturing (electronics or electro-mechanical preferred).

+ Basic understanding of electronic components, BOMs, and MRP/ERP systems.

+ Strong organizational and analytical skills.

+ Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, part specifications, and datasheets.

+ Experience handling shortages or long-lead items is a plus.

+ Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP systems (Epicor, SAP, or similar).

+ CPM, CPSM, or APICS certifications are a plus but not required.

Core Competencies

+ Good communication and relationship-building skills

+ Detail-oriented and organized

+ Problem-solving and analytical abilities

+ Adaptable to changing production needs

+ Willingness to learn and continuously improve