Technical Buyer - Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)

Job DetailsJob Location: Frederick, MD - Frederick, MD 21703Position Type: Full-TimeSalary Range: $70,000.00 - $100,000.00 SalaryOUR COMPANY As a manufacturing firm, ACDi's biggest differentiator is our people. We're here to do more than simply build "widgets". Our people offer solutions to challenging design and product development issues and are passionate about hitting customer delivery schedules and exceeding expectations. We approach each project understanding that achieving the highest quality possible is required for every step of the electronics design, engineering, and manufacturing process. What we do day-in and day-out has a lasting, meaningful impact across many industries and in the lives of everyday people. At ACDi we create a seismic measuring system that prevents people from getting stuck in elevators during an earthquake; we defend our nation by helping to build gun turrets for tanks, communication systems for troops, and military avionics; we support NASA programs with communications systems that converse with launched vehicles. We approach each project understanding that achieving the highest quality possible is required for every step of the electronics manufacturing process, because these projects help keep our country and people around the world safe, secure, and free. At ACDi, we’re more than just a contract manufacturer. POSITION SUMMARY The technical buyer – printed circuit boards (PCBs) is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing suppliers of printed circuit boards and related electronic components for a manufacturing environment. This role ensures that PCB materials meet engineering specifications, quality standards, cost targets, and production timelines. The position requires close collaboration with engineering, quality, production planning, and external suppliers.   ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSBILITIES To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Other duties may be assigned. · Source and procure PCBs (rigid, flex, rigid-flex, HDI, specialty materials) that meet engineering drawings, stack-ups, and performance requirements. · Interpret technical documentation such as Gerber files, fabrication drawings, IPC standards, and bills of materials to ensure supplier capability and compliance. · Evaluate and qualify PCB suppliers, including capability assessments, audits, and ongoing performance monitoring. · Negotiate pricing, lead times, contracts, and supply agreements to support cost-reduction and continuity-of-supply goals. · Manage RFQs and competitive bidding processes, ensuring accurate technical communication between engineering, program management, customers, quality, and suppliers. · Collaborate with engineering teams on design-for-manufacturability (DFM) feedback, material selection, and early supplier involvement. · Resolve supply issues, including quality concerns, delivery delays, and engineering change impacts. · Maintain accurate procurement data in ERP/MRP systems, including purchase orders, lead times, bill of materials, demand flow quantities, and supplier records. · Monitor market trends in PCB materials, technologies, and global supply chain risks. · Support new product introductions (NPI) by coordinating prototype builds and ensuring suppliers can scale to production volumes. QualificationsSPECIFIC EDUCATIONAL/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS · 5+ years of experience in engineering, procurement or supply chain within electronics or PCB manufacturing. · Strong understanding of PCB fabrication processes, materials, stack-ups, and IPC standards. · Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, Gerber files, and technical specifications. · Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and standard procurement workflows. · Strong negotiation, communication, and supplier-relationship skills. · Analytical mindset with the ability to balance cost, quality, and technical constraints. · Ability to conduct supplier onsite audits and manufacturing process assessments. · Demonstrated skill in sharing information within all levels of the organization. · Ability to collaborate on ideas within business teams and provide convincing reasoning for your recommendations. · Willingness to travel domestically and internationally up to 15%. Preferred Qualifications · Bachelor’s degree in engineering, supply chain, electronics technology, or a related field. · Experience with global PCB suppliers and offshore manufacturing. · Familiarity with quality systems (ISO 9001, AS9100, IPC-6012/ 6013). · Background supporting NPI processes or high-reliability industries (aerospace, medical, automotive). · Knowledge of ITAR and DPAS requirements and capabilities of suppliers in these areas. · Knowledge of DFM/ DFX principles for PCB fabrication. · Certification for supplier audits or ability to obtain certification within 6 - 9 months. · Willingness to work in our production environment to understand customer programs and components. BENEFITS Five (5) weeks PTO per year Eight (8) paid holidays per year 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with employer match Medical/Dental/Vision coverage (first of the month following hire date) HSA & FSA Plans (with HSA employer contribution) Company-paid life insurance Supplemental insurance options   PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; sit; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.   ENVIRONMENT CONDITIONS The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee may be exposed to hazards (chemical, mechanical, and/or radiant energy). The employee may be required to wear protective clothing such as heel straps and a lab coat. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. All of the work will be performed indoors.   ACDi is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by the law.