Position Summary
The Buyer is responsible for procuring raw materials, components, and services required to support manufacturing operations. This role ensures timely availability of materials at optimal cost while maintaining quality standards and supplier performance. The Buyer will utilize NetSuite ERP to manage purchase orders, inventory levels, supplier data, and reporting in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Procurement & Supplier Management
- Source, negotiate, and purchase materials, components, and services in support of production schedules
- Issue, track, and manage purchase orders within NetSuite ERP
- Maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure on-time delivery, quality, and cost competitiveness
- Monitor supplier performance and resolve delivery, quality, or pricing issues
- Support supplier selection, qualification, and ongoing evaluations
Manufacturing & Inventory Support
- Collaborate with Planning, Production, Engineering, and Quality teams to align purchasing activities with manufacturing requirements
- Ensure materials availability to support production schedules while minimizing excess inventory
- Monitor inventory levels, lead times, and demand forecasts
- Expedite materials as needed to prevent production disruptions
ERP & Data Management (NetSuite)
- Maintain accurate item, vendor, pricing, and lead-time data in NetSuite
- Analyze MRP recommendations and convert planned orders into purchase orders
- Generate and review purchasing and inventory reports
- Ensure compliance with internal controls and procurement policies within the ERP system
Cost Control & Continuous Improvement
- Identify cost-saving opportunities through supplier negotiations, alternate sourcing, and process improvements
- Support inventory optimization initiatives (MOQ, safety stock, lead-time reductions)
- Participate in continuous improvement and cross-functional projects
Compliance & Documentation
- Ensure purchasing activities comply with company policies and applicable regulatory requirements
- Maintain accurate documentation for audits and reporting
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
- 3+ years of buying or procurement experience in a manufacturing environment
- Hands-on experience using NetSuite ERP for purchasing and inventory management
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, MRP, and supply chain principles
- Experience negotiating pricing, lead times, and terms with suppliers
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in [industry-specific manufacturing, if applicable]
- CPIM, CSCP, or CPSM certification
- Experience with international sourcing and logistics
- Knowledge of quality standards and supplier audits
Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and negotiation abilities
- High attention to detail and data accuracy
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools
- Team-oriented with strong cross-functional collaboration skills
Working Conditions
- Office and manufacturing environment
- Occasional overtime or schedule flexibility may be required to support production needs