Buyer, Manufacturing ​/ Production

BIRNS, Inc. is an AS9100 certified global leader in the design and manufacturing of high-performance underwater connectors, subsea cable assemblies, subsea lighting, dive lights, and nuclear facility lighting. BIRNS is seeking a Buyer to work with our dynamic Procurement team.

This role is critical in managing supplier relationships and ensuring the procurement of high-quality materials essential for our specialized manufacturing processes.

The Buyer reports to the Procurement Manager and is responsible to ensure the availability of non-inventory supplies for production. The ideal candidate will have experience in a manufacturing environment and knowledge of supply chain processes and inventory management. This position plays a critical role in ensuring available product for the manufacturing lines.

Located in the United States, this position contributes significantly to our operational efficiency and product excellence.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

• Manage purchase orders and ensure timely procurement of materials and supplies in accordance with standard company procedures
• Responsible for Kanban, MRO, Office and Breakroom supplies, as well as non-inventory purchase requirements/all requisitions
• Monitor inventory levels and implement effective inventory control measures
• Authorize payment for purchases by reviewing invoices and related documentation
• Monitor shipments to ensure goods are received on time and confer with Procurement Manager to resolve problems related to undelivered, defective or unacceptable goods or services to determine corrective action
• Coordinate calibration effort for QA
• Gage pulls for suppliers as needed (in addition to POs for gages loaned out)
• Support the purchasing department with following up of open POs scheduled to arrive within the next 14 days
• Research and coordinate onsite vendors as necessary

• High school diploma or GED
• Minimum of 3 years of purchasing/buyer/supply chain experience, preferably in a manufacturing setting, with a Bachelor’s degree or 5 years’ experience without a Bachelor’s degree
• Ability to work onsite in an office and manufacturing environment
• Proactive and self-organized
• Capable of working independently as well as in a team environment
• Ability to complete assigned tasks within the given time in order to meet strict deadlines
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficient in using purchasing software and tools
• Knowledge of logistics, inventory control, and supply chain management principles
• Attention to detail and ability to prioritize multiple tasks
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal

High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and three + years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree, or five years of related experience without a Bachelor’s degree; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Ability to read and interpret documents such as operating and maintenance instructions, blueprints, data and procedure manuals. Good written language skills are required, including the ability to write routine reports and effective correspondence. Excellent verbal language skills are required, including the ability to speak effectively (and clearly so others can understand you) before individuals or groups. Skills in “active listening” are also required.

i.e. giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Ability to adeptly use standard negotiation techniques, in a friendly style for “win-win” outcomes.

Ability to interact with others as a contributing member of a close-knit team. Ability to work together with others, possibly of different backgrounds and interests, without undue friction. Work well with others. Able to maintain strict confidentiality.

Ability to calculate figures and…