Junior Buyer

Job Description Position Summary:The Junior Buyer is responsible for purchasing materials, equipment, tools, supplies, and services required to support company operations. This role creates and manages purchase orders, maintains purchasing data within the ERP system, and coordinates with suppliers and internal departments to ensure materials and services are available to meet production schedules and operational needs.Purchasing activities are performed in coordination with the Operations Support Manager and in alignment with company purchasing practices and operational needs.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Purchase materials, components, supplies, and services required to support production and company operationsReview inventory levels and production requirements to ensure materials are ordered in appropriate quantities to support productionCreate and manage purchase orders and order schedules within the ERP systemReview supplier order confirmations to verify pricing, quantities, and delivery commitmentsTrack open purchase orders, confirm delivery commitments, and expedite orders when necessary to support production requirementsCommunicate order status updates and potential delivery or material availability issues to the Operations Support ManagerResolve supplier issues, including pricing, delivery, quality, or invoice discrepancies, and coordinate with internal departments to address material discrepancies or vendor non-conformancesMaintain professional supplier relationships and communicationMaintain vendor records and supplier documentation including certifications and compliance records such as ISO certificates, NDAs, SDS, material certifications, supplier questionnaires, and other required supplier documentationFollow company purchasing guidelinesAdditional Responsibilities:Research potential suppliers, materials, or services to support sourcing decisions and purchasing activitiesObtain supplier quotes and pricing information when requestedCompile supplier performance data and participate in supplier evaluations or performance reviews when requestedSupport cost analysis and cost reduction activities related to purchasing and supplier pricingProactively monitor supplier availability, lead times, and pricing changes, and communicate potential impacts to the Operations Support ManagerPrepare purchasing-related reports or updates when requestedSupport purchasing process improvements and operational efficiency initiativesAssist with onboarding new suppliers and maintaining vendor setup information and required documentation within the ERP system and vendor recordsCompetencies:Communication: Communicates clearly and professionally with suppliers and internal departments regarding orders, delivery timing, and supply issues.Organization: Manages purchase orders, supplier information, and documentation in a structured and accurate manner.Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy when reviewing purchase orders, supplier confirmations, pricing, and vendor documentation.Problem Solving: Identifies purchasing issues such as delivery delays, pricing discrepancies, or supply shortages and work with suppliers and internal teams to resolve them.Supplier Relationship Management: Builds and maintains professional working relationships with suppliers to support reliable supply and effective communication.Time Management: Prioritizes purchasing tasks and manages follow-ups to ensure materials arrive on time to support production requirements.Analytical Thinking: Reviews supplier data, pricing information, and purchasing trends to support purchasing decisions and supplier evaluations.ERP System Use: Effectively utilizes the company ERP system to create purchase orders, track orders, and maintain purchasing records.Physical Requirements:The employee is regularly required to speak, hear, and sit for extended periods of time. Frequently the employees are required to use their hands and fingers to handle or feel, as well as reach with hands and arms. Occasionally the employee is required to stand and walk, lift or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities include near, far, and peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.Education and Experience:High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education or training in purchasing, supply chain, business, or a related field preferred (or equivalent experience).2–3 years of experience in purchasing, materials management, or a related role in a manufacturing environment preferred.Familiarity with manufacturing purchasing processes, supplier communication, and purchase order management; experience in sheet metal fabrication or a similar industry preferredExperience working with an ERP system preferred (JobBOSS experience beneficial).Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel.EEO STATEMENT:“We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions based on merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.”Office Shift- Monday through Friday 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM