Senior Buyer
Position SummaryThe Senior Buyer is responsible for the strategic sourcing and procurement of wood and metal materials to support manufacturing operations. This role owns supplier relationships, negotiates contracts, manages cost‑saving initiatives, and ensures continuity of supply while meeting quality and production requirements. The Senior Buyer works cross‑functionally with Engineering, Operations, and Quality teams to align procurement strategies with business objectives.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Sourcing & ProcurementLead the procurement of wood, lumber, panels, steel, aluminum, and other metal materials to support production schedules and operational needsDevelop and implement sourcing strategies to optimize cost, quality, availability, and supplier performanceConduct RFQs/RFPs, evaluate supplier proposals, and negotiate pricing, contracts, and termsOwn total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis and drive cost‑reduction and cost‑avoidance initiativesSupplier & Vendor ManagementDevelop, qualify, and manage a high‑performing supplier base for wood and metal commoditiesMonitor supplier performance through KPIs, scorecards, and periodic reviewsCollaborate with suppliers to address quality, delivery, and capacity issuesManage long‑term supply agreements and blanket purchase ordersERP, Inventory & Operations SupportUtilize ERP systems to manage purchasing activities, including requisitions, purchase orders, and supplier dataPartner with Operations and Planning teams to ensure material availability and mitigate supply riskSupport inventory strategies, including safety stock levels and lead‑time optimizationResolve purchasing discrepancies related to pricing, quantities, or delivery schedulesCross‑Functional CollaborationWork closely with Engineering to review specifications and material requirementsPartner with Quality to support supplier compliance and corrective actionsSupport continuous improvement initiatives within procurement and supply chain operationsRequired QualificationsMinimum 5+ years of purchasing experience, with direct experience sourcing wood and/or metal materialsStrong Negotiation Skills And Supplier Relationship Management ExperienceExperience working in a manufacturing or industrial environmentProficiency with ERP systems (SAP or similar preferred)Strong analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skillsWork EnvironmentThis is a direct placement opportunity within a modern, well-maintained facility featuring an updated and comfortable interior. The Senior Buyer works closely with Senior leadership and reports to the COO, collaborating frequently with Engineering, Operations, and other cross-functional teams. The role relies heavily on ERP/MRP systems, including Microsoft Dynamics 365, as well as advanced use of Microsoft Excel for analysis and reporting. The environment supports professional collaboration, strategic decision-making, and continuous improvement within a contemporary office setting.Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Elkhorn, WI.Pay And BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $90000.00 - $100000.00/yr.health dental vision Palmer Hamilton internal benefitsWorkplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Elkhorn,WI.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on May 8, 2026.About Aston CarterAston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service.The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com for other accommodation options.