Buyer

Summary:

The Buyer Planner will be primarily responsible for managing the material planning processes required for ensuring inventory levels for meeting production schedules and customer delivery dates. Responsibilities include; planning and executing raw material purchases, ordering, expediting, monitoring and reporting inventory activity. The Buyer Planner must build supplier relationships; which include negotiation and identification of supplier ability/inability to meet materials requirements plans and adjusting accordingly. In addition, the Buyer Planner will collaborate with other departments to ensure that all material requirements are met for added or revised orders. Function as a key liaison between production and the supplier base.

Duties / Responsibilities:

Source and purchase raw materials, components, and supplies required for the manufacturing of air and oil filters.

Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure consistent quality, on-time delivery, and cost-effectiveness.

Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts with suppliers while monitoring performance to ensure compliance with agreements.

Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to align procurement with product and production requirements.

Analyze market trends, material availability, and cost drivers to support strategic purchasing decisions.

Maintain accurate purchase orders, supplier records, and data within the ERP system.

Monitor inventory levels to support production schedules while minimizing excess stock and obsolescence.

Identify and qualify new suppliers to expand sourcing options and mitigate supply chain risk.

Resolve issues related to supplier quality, delivery, or invoicing discrepancies in a timely manner.

Support continuous improvement initiatives within the supply chain and contribute to cost-saving projects.

Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

Associate's degree in supply chain, Business, Operations or equivalent

Minimum 1-year recent previous experience in a Purchasing/Materials role

Experience working in ERP/MRP systems is essential with a specific focus on purchasing activities, knowledge of Sage ERP Software a plus

Strong analytical, planning and organizational skills

Proven ability to manage multiple tasks/projects with a high degree of effectiveness with an ability to work independently under pressure and react quickly to changing prioritize

Highly organized with excellent oral and written communication and follow-up skills

Excellent organizational and analytical abilities with attention to detail.

Ability to take a proactive approach to overcome challenges and achieve results

Proven appreciation of customer service expectations and cost demands of business

Sets priorities taking into account short and long-term needs of the business.

Preferred Qualifications:

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; Excel expertise strongly preferred.

Normal Working Hours and Conditions: Position will primarily be located in a controlled office environment with occasional requirements to conduct work in the warehouse or production areas. Other requirements including standing, walking, sitting, talking, hearing, fingering, grasping, use of personal computer and related office equipment, and a minimum 40 work hours per week. Minimal travel may be required