Buyer, Supply Chain​/Logistics

MRL - Mark Rite Lines Billings, MT 59101, USA

Mark Rite Lines Equipment Company (MRL), headquartered in Billings, Montana, is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of paint marking and pavement maintenance equipment. With over four decades of industry expertise, MRL builds high-performance machinery used for traffic paint application, line removal, and surface preparation. Known for innovation, reliability, and customer-focused solutions, MRL delivers equipment “by stripers, for stripers”—helping professionals around the world achieve precision and productivity on every job.

The Buyer plays a critical role in ensuring uninterrupted manufacturing operations through strategic procurement, supplier management, and inventory planning. This position works closely with Engineering, Production, Inventory Control, Customer Service, and suppliers to secure materials that meet company quality, cost, and delivery expectations while supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

• Procure materials, equipment, services, and supplies to support manufacturing operations while meeting quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
• Create and manage purchase orders, blanket purchase agreements, and other replenishment methods to maintain efficient material flow.
• Source, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers to obtain the best overall value through competitive pricing, quality, service, and delivery performance.
• Prepare and analyze Requests for Quotation (RFQs) and recommend sourcing decisions based on supplier capabilities and business needs.
• Monitor inventory levels and purchasing activities to balance material availability with inventory investment and carrying costs.
• Manage supplier relationships by monitoring quality, delivery, and service performance, resolving issues, and implementing corrective actions when necessary.
• Coordinate with Engineering, Production, Inventory Control, Customer Service, and suppliers to ensure timely procurement and support production schedules.
• Resolve purchase order discrepancies, supplier delivery issues, pricing concerns, and potential material shortages before they impact operations.
• Source outside vendors and job shops for manufactured components, fabricated parts, and specialized services as needed.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records and ERP system data while supporting continuous improvement initiatives within the purchasing process.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment by following company safety policies and 5S principles.
• Perform other duties, assignments, and special projects as assigned.

• Strong negotiation and vendor relationship management skills.
• Knowledge of purchasing principles, inventory control, and supply chain best practices.
• Ability to analyze pricing, supplier quotations, and procurement data.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel.
• Experience working within ERP/MRP systems.
• Ability to solve problems independently while exercising sound judgment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external suppliers.

• APICS, CPSM, CPM, or other purchasing or supply chain certifications.
• Experience in manufacturing, industrial equipment, or metal fabrication environments.
• Experience with supplier negotiations and contract management.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement principles.

• Associate's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations Management, or a related field preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Three (3) or more years of purchasing, procurement, supply chain, or buyer experience preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience may be considered.

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to occasionally walk through manufacturing and warehouse areas.
• Ability to occasionally…