The Buyer/Planner coordinates activities involved with planning and procuring goods and services for multiple product lines. They are responsible for planning and purchasing items such as electromechanical assemblies, fabricated parts, and electronics. They understand different manufacturing processes and have a willingness to travel both domestically and internationally. Work closely with Engineering, Accounting, Scheduling, Receiving and Production personnel to ensure timely delivery of materials while following appropriate policies and procedures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Issue requests for quotes (RFQ) and select the best source consistent with cost, quality and delivery requirements. Negotiate and manage long-term pricing agreements on critical commodities.
Complete purchase requests with domestic and international suppliers by inputting purchase orders, expediting deliveries, and verifying all transactions.
Handle correspondence concerning over-shipments, delivery shortages, changes in quantity, delivery dates, and prices and report such changes to the interested parties in a timely manner as required.
Act as a liaison between suppliers and involved departments to resolve procurement-related problems.
Source new products to meet new product launch timelines.
Authorize payment for purchases by reviewing invoices and related documentation.
Maintain appropriate inventory levels consistent with inventory goals and as set by management.
Maintain accuracy of system information, including lead-time, pricing, current supplier information, current purchase order data, etc.
Monitor supplier performance by ensuring that product is delivered as scheduled and meets specifications; maintaining appropriate files and records of meetings with suppliers to ensure company requirements are met and that the supplier is aware of their performance.
Contribute to team effort by accomplishing other job-related tasks as needed, enabling other workers to achieve their job objectives.
Source new suppliers as required and determine the best source of supply by evaluating price, quality, manufacturing capabilities, lead time, service support, and financial stability.
Participates effectively as a member of a team promoting the exchange of ideas, information, and feedback in all directions.
May work directly in support of line operations and in collaboration with department managers, engineers, or operations staff.
Demonstrate leadership and expertise in Lean Manufacturing.

Knowledge, Skills, Experience and Education requirements:

Professional purchasing in manufacturing or related industry.
Bachelor’s degree (BS/BA) and 5 years’ experience.
Must understand an MRP software system.
Knowledge of the electronic component industry.
Working knowledge of Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Experience in negotiation.
Ability to perform in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented work environment.
Ability to work well with others in a team environment.
Excellent organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
Preferred to have experience with international travel.

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