Buyer, Business

Job Summary

The Buyer is responsible for the day-to-day purchasing of assigned materials, products, and services to support manufacturing, branches, and sales operations. This role ensures timely purchase order placement, supplier coordination, cost awareness, and inventory control. The Buyer supports cost improvement initiatives, evaluates supplier performance, and collaborates cross-functionally to balance cost, quality, and delivery.

• Places purchase orders for assigned product groups based on demand, safety stock, and inventory targets.
• Monitors open purchase orders and expediting shipments as needed to support production and customer requirements and senior staff recommendations.
• Obtains quotes from approved vendors to support Houston Sales/Branches with timely pricing.
• Supports internal transfer orders and replenishment planning for assigned items.
• Coordinates with suppliers to clarify specifications or delivery updates.
• Assists Quality Assurance with supplier corrective action requests (CARs) and follows up for timely responses.
• Updates vendor contract pricing and audits pricing for accuracy in company ERP program, based on senior staff recommendations.
• Maintains current vendor contact lists, price lists, and purchasing files.
• Resolves invoice discrepancies by working with Accounts Payable and vendors.
• Analyzes purchasing trends and cost drivers using ERP tools to identify cost saving opportunities including volume purchases and alternate sourcing strategies, with management approval.
• Monitors product lead times and communicates risks or delays.
• Supports inventory planning efforts to avoid shortages or excess stock.
• Escalates supply issues to Purchasing Manager and collaborates to resolve problems.
• Maintains awareness of industry trends affecting pricing and availability.
• Interacts with cross-functional teams and departments to meet operational needs.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Analytical thinking and problem‑solving ability.
• Basic to intermediate negotiation skills.
• Familiarity with procurement processes and quality functions.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency in MS Office and ERP systems (SL8 preferred).
• Ability to collaborate cross‑functionally.

• Required:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field. 4 years of relevant purchasing or supply chain experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Preferred: CPSM or other supply chain certification.

• Required:
  
  Previous experience in supply chain, business management, purchasing, inventory management, or manufacturing management through an internship, co‑op, or volunteer program.
• Preferred: 2 years of experience in purchasing, supply chain, or related role preferably in the manufacturing industry.

• Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer.
• Ability to travel domestically as needed.