International Buyer

Position Summary

CVG is seeking a proactive and solutions‑oriented International Buyer to support the Wiper Assembly product line at our Michigan City, Indiana manufacturing facility. This role is responsible for managing the procurement and supply continuity of direct materials, components, and services while ensuring uninterrupted support of production schedules and customer commitments.

The ideal candidate will be a self‑starter who anticipates risks, builds strong supplier relationships, and proactively manages international supply chains to prevent material shortages before they impact production. The role requires strong problem‑solving abilities, adaptability, collaboration, and a customer‑focused mindset. The buyer works closely with Production, Materials Planning, Engineering, Quality, Logistics, and suppliers worldwide to support operational excellence and continuous improvement.

• Manage day‑to‑day purchasing activities for wiper assembly components (motors, linkages, blades, arms, fasteners, and related hardware).
• Place, monitor, expedite, and track purchase orders within the ERP/MRP system to ensure on‑time delivery.
• Maintain continuous communication with domestic and international suppliers to ensure supply continuity and mitigate disruptions.
• Proactively identify potential material shortages, supplier constraints, and logistics risks before they impact production.
• Coordinate expedited shipments (air freight and other alternative transportation) when necessary to support customer demand.
• Manage supplier performance related to cost, quality, delivery, responsiveness, and overall reliability.
• Work with Production Planning and Materials teams to support demand requirements and maintain appropriate inventory levels.
• Monitor and manage fluctuating supplier lead times, transportation challenges, and changing customer demand requirements.
• Support overseas sourcing activities and collaborate with suppliers in China, India, Vietnam, and other global markets.
• Partner with logistics providers and freight forwarders to coordinate international shipments and improve material flow.
• Maintain accurate item master records, supplier lead times, purchasing data, and sourcing information within ERP systems.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Quality teams on supplier‑related issues, corrective actions, engineering changes, and product launches.
• Support cost‑saving initiatives, supplier development activities, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Participate in supplier‑risk assessments and business continuity planning activities.
• Prepare purchasing metrics, supplier updates, and supply‑chain status reports for plant leadership.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field (preferred; equivalent experience considered).
• Minimum of 2 years of purchasing, procurement, or buying experience within a manufacturing environment; automotive or commercial vehicle production experience preferred.
• Experience purchasing mechanical or electromechanical components (motors, assemblies, stampings, linkages, or related products) is highly desirable.
• International sourcing or global supplier management experience preferred.
• Must be proficient with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., Plex, SAP, Oracle, QAD, JDEdwards, Epicor).
• Must have strong understanding of manufacturing supply chains, lead times, and inventory management principles.
• Must have experience managing supplier relationships and resolving supply‑chain disruptions.
• Must understand international shipping processes, freight coordination, and import logistics, including ocean and air freight.
• Must possess strong analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Excel and purchasing systems.
• Must be an excellent communicator with relationship‑building skills.

• Experience sourcing from suppliers in China, India, Vietnam, or other international markets.
• Exposure to automotive quality systems (PPAP, APQP, IATF
  16949).
• Professional certifications (CPSM, CPM, APICS/CPIM, or related).
• Experience…