Job Opportunity - Purchasing Buyer/Planner

POSITION: Purchasing Buyer/Planner LOCATION: Houghton, Michigan CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt REPORTS TO: Operations Manager POSITION DESCRIPTION The Buyer/Planner plans and procures components to support production, prototype builds and Customer Support part needs in accordance with ordering requirements. The role involves planning and forecasting to coordinate with suppliers and maintain timely material flow while working to reduce inventory levels. The Buyer/Planner participates in negotiating competitive component pricing and lead-time arrangements and assists in resolving supplier quality and delivery issues. Strong communication, analytical and multitasking skills enable the Buyer/Planner to identify and resolve issues, meet deadlines and respond effectively to frequently changing priorities and periods of high pressure. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES Review the materials requirements plan to include Material Requirements Planning (MRP) and blanket orders Maintain appropriate planning parameters, including lead times, order quantities, safety stock and reorder points Issue purchase orders to suppliers in accordance with material requirements to support timely component availability Maintain accurate purchase-order dates, quantities, pricing and delivery commitments within the Enterprises Resource Planning (ERP) System Proactively challenge and negotiate supplier price increases to minimize unfavorable purchase price variances Expedite critical materials and communicate recovery plans to affected departments Manage relationships with key suppliers to maintain quality of goods and timely delivery Identify supply-chain risks involving capacity, financial stability, geographic concentration, logistics and sole-source components Identify and source new suppliers to meet business needs Prepare and manage requests for quotes (RFQ) Manage purchases related to Product Change Orders (PCO) Monitor inventory levels to identify potential shortages and excess inventory, supporting material availability while minimizing unnecessary inventory Participate in cross-functional project teams Monitor freight methods and recommend best service to minimize cost Participate in company safety objectives Follow all ISO 9001:2015 company policies and procedures Research and evaluate areas of opportunity to reduce costs within the department Work safely in an office and manufacturing environment and follow all company safety policies and procedures ATTRIBUTES Apply problem-solving skills to resolve issues using existing systems and processes Communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing Organize work effectively through strong organizational skills Respond to time-sensitive needs with an appropriate sense of urgency. Take ownership of material planning and approach challenges with a focus on successful outcomes Follow established processes and take initiative to improve them Build effective professional relationships with suppliers Maintain composure and a positive, professional approach in high-pressure situations Demonstrate a consistent awareness of safety in daily work Respond constructively to change and adapt work approaches as needed EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, operations management or a related field preferred Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office including Excel required Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)/Material Resources Planning (MRP) experience preferred 3-5 years manufacturing purchasing experience preferred including material planning, inventory management, supplier sourcing, request-for-quote preparation, quotation analysis, price negotiation and expediting materials to support production schedules WORKING CONDITIONS Ability to work extended hours as business needs dictate Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer Frequent use of a computer, keyboard, mouse, telephone and other…

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