Procurement Buyer

SEE YOUR CAREER THROUGH A NEW LENS WITH RPO!

RPO is a global leader in precision optics, optical components, and optical assemblies. We specialize in a full spectrum of products & services including – Design and Engineering, Systems Integration, Lens Assembly, Visible and Infrared Components, Glass and Plastic Molded Aspheres, and Thin Film Coating. As one of the fastest growing companies in the Rochester area, RPO offers exciting career paths to work on market-leading programs across a variety of industries.

Job Summary:

A Procurement Buyer is responsible for sourcing materials and services, negotiating favorable terms, and ensuring reliable supplier performance to support production and operational needs. This role manages day‑to‑day purchasing activities, drives cost improvements, and helps maintain a resilient supply base across key commodities such as optical glass, machined components, plastics, coating services, and select MRO/indirect items.

You Will:

• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and payment terms to meet cost, quality, and delivery objectives.
• Drive cost reductions through supplier negotiations, purchase price variance (PPV) improvements, and cost‑avoidance initiatives.
• Procure materials and services at the best total cost of ownership while maintaining continuity of supply.
• Independently quote materials, components, and project‑based purchases
• Track and improve supplier on‑time delivery and overall performance
• Identify and mitigate supply risks, material shortages, and capacity constraints
• Support inventory‑turn goals through disciplined purchasing practices and demand alignment
• Monitor, analyze, and report material variances to support accurate costing and financial visibility
• Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Finance, and Operations to resolve supply issues and support new product or process needs
• Identify, propose, and qualify new suppliers to improve cost, quality, or lead time
• Ensure compliance with ITAR, EAR, and defense‑related procurement requirements

You Have:

• Associate’s degree in Purchasing, Business, Economics, Supply Chain, or related field; Bachelor’s degree preferred
• 2+ years of purchasing experience, preferably with optical components or mechanical/electro‑mechanical sub‑assemblies
• At least 1 year of commodity purchasing experience
• ERP system experience (Epicor preferred)
• Experience working with defense contractors or in a regulated manufacturing environment preferred
• Knowledge and understanding of basic accounting practices

You Are:

• Results-Oriented: Motivated, hard-working and ready to level-up;
• Curious:  You never stop learning and have an insatiable desire to gain new skills and knowledge;
• Process Oriented:  Well organized, demonstrating attention to detail;
• Analytical:  Possess a “If there’s a problem, I’ll find a solution”  attitude;
• Accountable:  Demanding the highest quality from yourself and team members;
• Detail-Oriented:  Have excellent time management and organizational skills;
• A Team Player:  Reliable, collaborative, flexible with a positive ‘get things done’ attitude;
• A U.S. Person: Compliant with ITAR, EAR and other laws and regulations as defined:  “U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents ("Green Card" holders), persons granted refugee status or asylum status in the United States, or temporary residents granted amnesty.”

You Will Enjoy:

• Growth:  The opportunity to learn and advance your career;
• Wealth: Competitive compensation package linked to your experience and performance, a 401(k) with company match;
• Wellness: Health, dental, vision & life insurance;
• Balance:  11 paid holidays, generous paid vacation and sick -time;
• Culture:  an energetic, caring, fun, value-driven team.

Environment & Physical Demands:

• Professional office environment with routine use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, copiers, filing cabinets and fax machine; noise level typical of a standard office environment       
• Prolonged sitting, computer and telephone use, as well as standing, filing, bending, reaching and lifting and carrying up to 15 pounds       
• Occasional exposure to manufacturing plant floor requiring the use of personal protective equipment (ear plugs, safety glasses, etc.)        
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Disclaimer:

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Rochester Precision Optics is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our business and our people.

EOE/AA/Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States, and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.