Senior Buyer (Spartanburg)

Position SummaryThe Buyer is responsible for procuring a wide variety of raw materials, components, and outside services in a high-mix/low-volume manufacturing environment. This role requires rapid response to changing customer demand, frequent new part introductions, and tight coordination with engineering and production. The Buyer must balance speed, cost, and supplier flexibility to ensure material availability without overcommitting inventory.Key ResponsibilitiesDynamic Procurement & SourcingSource and procure diverse materials (compressors, fans, electrical components, metals)Quickly identify and qualify new suppliers for unique or non-standard requirementsSupplier Agility & Relationship ManagementDevelop suppliers capable of short lead times, small batch sizes, and high responsivenessNegotiate not just price, but flexibility (minimum order quantities, quick-turn capability, split shipments)Maintain backup suppliers for critical or volatile materialsDevelop suppliers to shorten supply chain(local inventory from overseas suppliers) without overcommittingIdentify and develop domestic suppliers whenever possibleCross-Functional CoordinationWork closely with engineering on new part launches, print changes, and material substitutionsCollaborate with production planning to react to schedule changes and shifting prioritiesInterface with sales/customer service to support expedite requests and customer-driven changesExpediting & Problem ResolutionProactively monitor open orders and aggressively expedite as neededResolve material shortages, supplier delays, and quality issues in real timeMake risk-based decisions to prevent production interruptionsInventory StrategyMinimize excess and obsolete inventoryStrategically stock common materials while avoiding overbuying on custom itemsUse consumption trends and job history to guide stocking decisions where possibleSystems & Data ManagementMaintain accurate and timely purchase orders in ERP/MRP systemsContinuously update pricing, lead times, and supplier capabilitiesManage frequent order changes, cancellations, and reschedulesContinuous ImprovementIdentify opportunities to standardize materials and reduce complexity where feasibleSupport quoting accuracy by providing current material and service costsContribute to lead time reduction and supplier performance improvementsQualificationsEducation & ExperienceAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred3–7+ years of purchasing experience in a high-mix, custom manufacturing environmentTechnical SkillsStrong ERP/MRP experience in a job shop settingFamiliarity with fabrication materials, finishes, and outside processingAdvanced Excel skills for tracking and analysis