Buyer & Purchasing Specialist

About Hiker Trailers Hiker Trailers designs and manufactures high-quality teardrop and off-road trailers for adventure-minded customers. We are a growing manufacturing company focused on building durable products, improving systems, and solving real operational problems as we scale. Position Overview Hiker Trailers is seeking a mid-level Buyer / Purchasing Specialist to support and strengthen our purchasing and supply chain operations. This role sits between tactical order execution and higher-level sourcing and vendor management. The Buyer will be responsible for executing day-to-day purchasing while actively managing suppliers, tracking lead times, preventing shortages, and resolving issues before they impact production. This role works closely with production, engineering, and accounting and reports into our supply chain leadership. This is a hands-on role for someone who has moved beyond entry-level purchasing and wants more ownership, problem-solving, and accountability. Key Responsibilities Purchasing & Order Execution Purchase raw materials, components, and subassemblies to support trailer production Create, manage, and maintain accurate purchase orders in the ERP system Track order confirmations, delivery dates, and open shortages Coordinate inbound freight and prioritize deliveries with receiving Supplier Communication & Issue Resolution Communicate directly with vendors regarding pricing, lead times, availability, and order status Resolve purchasing issues such as shortages, incorrect shipments, damaged freight, and delays Escalate chronic supplier issues and support corrective actions Support onboarding and documentation of new vendors Inventory & Production Support Help maintain inventory accuracy, reorder points, and safety stock levels Participate in cycle counts and monthly inventory processes Proactively identify high-risk parts and communicate potential shortages to production Adjust purchasing priorities based on production schedule changes Cost & Process Support Assist with price tracking, cost changes, and basic purchasing reports Support quoting, alternate part sourcing, and vendor comparisons as needed Help improve purchasing workflows, documentation, and ERP data accuracy Qualifications Required: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, or related field or equivalent experience 3–5 years of purchasing or supply chain experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment Experience managing purchase orders, vendors, and delivery tracking Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities Clear written and verbal communication skills High attention to detail with a practical, problem-solving mindset Preferred: Experience in manufacturing, fabrication, or vehicle-related industries Familiarity with ERP/MRP and inventory management systems Experience coordinating freight and working with production teams Comfort following up with suppliers and holding them accountable What We Offer Competitive salary based on experience Health benefits Paid time off 401(k) Hands-on role with real ownership and visibility Opportunity to grow into senior purchasing or supply chain leadership Collaborative, production-focused work environment Pay: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Work Location: In person