Job Summary

As part of the Supply Chain team, the Commodity Buyer will lead the procurement of different commodities including but not limited to, Hardware, Gasket and Seals, and Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) materials, products, services, and packaging. This role focuses on planning, directing, and coordinating the purchasing of these commodities, while ensuring alignment with quality, cost, and delivery expectations. Key responsibilities include setting clear supplier expectations, driving cost optimization without compromising on quality, creating and releasing purchase orders, monitoring inventory levels, and making timely purchases. The Commodity Buyer will closely collaborate with suppliers to reduce lead times, enhance on-time delivery, improve inventory turnover, and identify cost reduction opportunities. The ideal candidate will also work cross-functionally with internal teams to prevent material shortages, resolve issues related to components, pricing, invoicing, and manage the introduction of new or substitute materials. This role requires effective communication with suppliers and internal stakeholders to resolve procurement, quality, invoicing, and inventory challenges, ensuring accuracy in ERP/MRP transactions. The Commodity Buyer will be responsible for purchase orders, shipments, and deliveries, and will follow up on any discrepancies related to price, quantity, or invoicing. The successful candidate will also perform demand analysis, prepare material consumption trend reports, and develop delivery schedules. Collaboration with commercial, engineering, manufacturing, and logistics teams is essential for success in this role. Attention to detail, a proactive approach, a sense of urgency, and strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills are critical to excel in this position.

 

Duties and Responsibilities

• Source and purchase hardware, gaskets and seals, and MRO materials, including tools, parts, equipment, and supplies, ensuring the timely and cost-effective acquisition of goods and services.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors, negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions, and ensure quality and on-time delivery.
• Monitor and manage inventory levels of each commodity, coordinating with the inventory and maintenance teams to ensure proper stock levels and timely replenishment.
• Implement cost-saving initiatives by identifying areas for optimization in the procurement process while ensuring compliance with budget constraints.
• Create and manage purchase orders, track deliveries, and resolve discrepancies related to shipments, pricing, or quality.
• Assist in the development and negotiation of contracts with suppliers and service providers, ensuring favorable terms and long-term relationships.
• Work closely with maintenance, operations, and engineering teams to understand their needs and ensure alignment between purchasing and operational requirements.
• Maintain D365 material master records, ensure data accuracy, and reconcile supplier invoices, resolving price discrepancies as necessary.
• Review and maintain internal/external Kanban replenishment, inventory management, vendor programs, and scheduling agreements.
• Participate in NCR reviews of defective materials to eliminate root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Support the Commodity Manager's vision and strategy as requested.
• Perform other duties as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Operations, or Supply Chain Management, with at least 2 years of recent supply chain experience in a manufacturing or assembly environment.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems, particularly in purchasing and materials management modules; knowledge of Microsoft Dynamics D365 is desirable.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with excellent interpersonal and collaboration abilities.
• Proven ability to manage shifting deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite.
• Strong problem-solving, project management, and analytical skills.
• APICS CPIM certification a plus.
• Demonstrated supplier negotiation experience.
• Ability to work effectively across all functional areas.