Associate Buyer

Position Summary 

The Associate Buyer position reports to the Operations Manager and has the primary responsibility for purchase order placement through our ERP, expediting shorts, and purchase order confirmation follow ups.  This position requires working effectively with our suppliers, planners and manufacturing personnel to coordinate and ensure a continuously seamless supply flow.  The Associate Buyer will also help with the facilitation of our cycle counting program and the root cause analysis of any inventory discrepancies. 

Essential Functions 

• Prepare purchase order requisitions and issue purchase orders through the MRP messages

• Follow up on order confirmations for issued purchase orders and any pending late purchase order requests. 

• Expedite orders as required to meet customer request dates. Communicate with Planning, Customer Service, and the Operations team on status of pending items

• Coordinate returns of non-conforming material along with the communication with the Supplier on non-standard product receipts

• Assist in processing discrepancies with regards to cycle counting, receipt verifications, and accounts payable

• Track and follow up on inventory issues that arise upon completion of daily cycle counts. Pareto and drive to root cause on inventory discrepancies and ensure proper countermeasures are implemented

• Maintain and organize physical stocking locations in the ERP System as needed for efficiency in picking orders, performing inventories, and cycle counts

• Drive continuous improvement activities to increase efficiency

• Practice good inventory management through the execution of good buying practices

• Manage multiple priorities in a continuously changing environment

• Perform other related duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION

• BA/BS degree in business, supply chain, or engineering field is preferred

• 1+ years of experience in buying/ procurement required, preferably in a manufacturing setting

• Experience in purchasing low volume, high precision, engineered commodities preferred

• C.P.M. or A.P.P. certification desired

• Experience in MRP Systems desirable (JDE preferred)

• Experience with Global Supply Chain Management preferred

• Proficiency in MS Excel, MS Word and Outlook

COMPETENCIES

• Adaptability & Flexibility – Adjusts effectively to changing priorities, new processes, or shifting business needs with a positive, solutions focused approach.

• Attention to Detail – Completes work with accuracy and thoroughness, identifying errors or inconsistencies and maintaining a high standard of quality.

• Collaboration & Teamwork – Works cooperatively with individuals and teams across the organization, contributing to a supportive and productive work environment.

• Communication Skills – Clearly conveys information verbally and in writing, ensuring understanding among coworkers, leadership, and external partners.

• Problem Solving – Evaluates issues, identifies root causes, and develops practical solutions to resolve challenges and improve efficiency.

Physical Environment and Environmental Factors

 Office Environment & Production Floor