Buyer, Manufacturing ​/ Production

Position Overview

PTMW is seeking an experienced Buyer for our manufacturing environment. This position is responsible for ensuring the timely and cost-effective procurement of materials, components, and services required to support manufacturing operations. This role plays a critical part in maintaining production schedules by managing inventory levels, processing purchase orders, and coordinating with suppliers to ensure on-time delivery and quality standards.

The Buyer works closely with production, engineering, and project management teams, as well as external vendors and logistics partners, to resolve supply issues, support new product quoting, and identify alternate sourcing options. This position contributes to operational efficiency by monitoring supplier performance and participating in continuous improvement initiatives within the supply chain.

Location:

Topeka, KS 66618

Education Level: High School

• Prepare and process purchase orders submitted by various departments.
• Verify inventory levels to ensure materials and supplies meet operational requirements.
• Place orders with suppliers and vendors, ensuring all documentation, terms, and conditions are accurate and clearly defined.
• Maintain organized purchasing records and filing systems; update documentation as needed for accuracy and compliance.
• Coordinate with suppliers to resolve issues related to delivery delays, damaged goods, or quantity discrepancies; communicate impacts to the production team in a timely manner.
• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders as well as external partners, including suppliers, shipping agents, and courier services.
• Procure materials using multiple purchasing methods, including stock orders, subcontracting, and critical material sourcing.
• Support engineering and project management teams by obtaining vendor quotes for new products during the quoting process.
• Identify, evaluate, and establish relationships with alternate or backup suppliers.
• Participate in production meetings as required to support operational alignment.
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives within the purchasing and supply chain functions.
• Apply strong problem-solving skills to address purchasing and supply challenges.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisor or management.

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in a manufacturing environment or a related field required.
• Working knowledge of accounting, purchasing, and/or inventory management systems is strongly preferred.
• Some college coursework or relevant post-secondary education preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and Access.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills required.
• Highly detail-oriented and organized, with the ability to work independently as a self-starter while effectively managing multiple priorities and meeting deadlines.