Summary 

The Lead Buyer is responsible for managing the procurement process and overseeing the acquisition of raw materials, production supplies, and tooling equipment necessary for operations. 

Responsibilities 

• Engage with suppliers to stay informed on market trends, request quotes, analyze pricing, and negotiate cost, quality, and service terms. 

• Manage capital item purchases, ordering, inventory, and product requirements. 

• Research and approve new suppliers, ensuring alignment with commodity strategies. 

• Identify cost-saving opportunities and track supplier performance to meet targets. 

• Work with cross-functional teams on design modifications, material standardization, and issue resolution. 

• Maintain purchasing records and report on savings and supplier performance. 

• Support offshore management initiatives and ensure adequate raw material inventory levels. 

• Coordinate engineering changes, new parts, and cost recovery for supplier issues. 

• Resolve invoice discrepancies and approve supplier invoices. 

• Provide backup support and contribute to continuous improvement efforts. 

• Oversee tool crib activities and assist with inventory management. 

• Create purchase orders, obtain quotes, maintain inventory levels, and ensure compliance with quality standards. 

• Ensure timely deliveries and coordinate production schedules with suppliers. 

• Monitor inventory, address delivery delays, and manage physical inventories. 

• Serve as a point of contact for suppliers, handling release and delivery concerns. 

• Provide off-shift support for suppliers and plant needs as necessary. 

• Ensure compliance with ISO standards and company policies and participate in audits and corrective actions. 

Requirements 

• 5+ years' experience in a purchasing or estimating role. 

• Experience in high volume Automotive manufacturing. 

• Secondary school diploma or equivalent. 

• Experience in procurement of Direct Materials and managing BOMs. 

• Experience with VA/VE and APQP. 

• Ability to read blueprints. 

• Demonstrated negotiation skills. 

• Understanding of SAP concepts and systems. 

• Proficiency in MS Office. 

• Understanding of organizational expectations, standards, policies, and procedures. 

• Good communication skills, both written and verbal. 

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, multi-tasked environment, and perform well under pressure. 

• Leadership skills. 

Perks 

• 3 weeks PTO + Paid Holidays 

• Health Insurance Options 

• Relocation Assistance Provided