About the position
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Buyer/Planner to join our manufacturing team specializing in compressor production. This individual will be responsible for planning, sourcing, and procuring raw materials, components, and subassemblies to support efficient manufacturing operations, while maintaining optimal inventory levels and ensuring supplier performance. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in supply chain management within a manufacturing environment, preferably with experience in mechanical or industrial products.
Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain production and materials plans based on demand forecasts, production schedules, and inventory targets.
- Create and manage purchase orders to ensure timely delivery of raw materials, parts, and components required for compressor manufacturing.
- Evaluate and select suppliers based on quality, cost, and delivery capabilities; build and maintain strategic supplier relationships.
- Monitor supplier performance and resolve issues related to delivery delays, quality discrepancies, and non-conformance.
- Work cross-functionally with engineering, quality, production, and finance teams to ensure supply chain alignment with project and production needs.
- Analyze inventory levels and trends to reduce excess and obsolete stock while preventing shortages and stockouts.
- Collaborate with production teams to adjust material availability in response to changes in demand or production schedules.
- Identify and lead cost-saving initiatives through supplier negotiation, alternate sourcing, and process improvements.
- Maintain accurate records in the ERP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or equivalent) related to purchase orders, inventory, lead times, and supplier data.
- Support new product introductions (NPI) by ensuring timely procurement of prototype and pre-production materials.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 5+ years of buyer/planner experience in a manufacturing environment; compressor or industrial equipment manufacturing is a strong plus.
- Solid knowledge of procurement processes, production planning, and supply chain principles.
- Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (e.g., GSS).
- Intermediate to Advanced MS Excel (pivot tables, v-lookups) required.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
