Direct Materials Buyer, Manufacturing Operations

Job Description

Job Description

Direct Materials Buyer, Manufacturing Operations

Picture your day starting with a quick scan of inventory levels, followed by a call with a key supplier to lock in pricing, and an afternoon collaboration with production to finalize next month’s materials plan. As our Direct Materials Buyer, you turn market insight into on-time, cost-effective purchasing decisions that keep operations moving.

What your day might look like

• Research and qualify dependable suppliers who can meet our exact needs and timelines.
• Evaluate supplier performance on quality, price, and delivery reliability to inform future awards.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing to secure favorable terms aligned with business goals.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to clarify purchasing requirements and specifications.
• Forecast demand for goods and services and translate it into strategic procurement plans.
• Monitor inventory to prevent overstock and shortages, adjusting orders as needed.
• Analyze market trends to uncover cost‑saving opportunities.
• Compare quotes from multiple suppliers to ensure competitive pricing.
• Optimize purchasing budgets while supporting organizational objectives.
• Issue purchase orders and track deliveries through to receipt.
• Verify that goods and services arrive in the correct quantity and quality.
• Troubleshoot delays, defects, and shipment discrepancies to resolution.
• Maintain precise records of purchases, contracts, and supplier communications.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, legal regulations, and industry standards.

Important: This position DOES NOT offer relocation assistance.

• Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field is required.
• Professional certifications like CIPP or CIPM are preferred.
• Five years of purchasing experience within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and communication abilities; proficiency with procurement software; solid knowledge of supply chain principles and market trends.
• Consistently meets established deadlines.
• Exceptional organizational and planning skills.
• Comfortable communicating with operators, supervisors, and all levels of management.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.

• Bachelor's Degree
• Supplier Management
• Commodity Purchasing Experience
• Sourcing and Procurement Experience
• Supplier Negotiation Experience

HYCO Alabama is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.