Admin-Buyer-1st shift

NTN Bearing Corporation•Columbus, IN

119d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a results-driven Indirect/Direct Buyer to support our automotive manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for sourcing and procuring indirect materials and services—including MRO supplies, tooling, capital equipment, and facility-related needs—ensuring uninterrupted plant operations. The ideal candidate will have experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and a strong understanding of indirect procurement, supplier management, and cost control. This position works cross-functionally with engineering, maintenance, operations, accounting, and external suppliers to deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
3+ years of purchasing experience, preferably in automotive or manufacturing
Experience with indirect procurement (MRO, services, capital, tooling)
Strong negotiation, analytical, vendor management skills, and attention to detail and financial aptitude.
Proficiency with ERP systems and working knowledge of Microsoft Office module, excel, word, power point.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

Responsible for sourcing and procurement of a broad range of MRO materials, supplies, and services supporting manufacturing operations, with a focus on optimizing cost, quality, and service levels.
Manage end-to-end requisition processing, including RFQ issuance, quotation analysis, bid evaluation, and supplier selection, ensuring alignment with cost targets and operational requirements.
Apply strong analytical and strategic thinking to identify sourcing opportunities, develop category strategies, and drive continuous improvement in procurement processes and supplier performance.
Proactively identify, qualify, and onboard new suppliers while maintaining and enhancing the existing supplier base through structured performance monitoring, KPI tracking, and periodic business reviews.
Lead and support supplier relationship management activities, ensuring compliance with contractual terms, driving accountability, and fostering long-term partnerships that deliver operational value.
Coordinate closely with cross-functional stakeholders (operations, planning, quality, and finance) to align purchasing activities with production needs and maintain optimal inventory levels.
Ensure continuity of supply and high service levels by monitoring supplier cost performance, delivery reliability, lead times, and quality metrics, taking corrective actions where necessary.
Manage annual spend across assigned commodities and supplier portfolios, contributing to budgeting, forecasting, and cost optimization initiatives.
Operate with a high degree of autonomy under general guidelines, demonstrating sound judgment, ownership, and a results-driven mindset in day-to-day purchasing decisions.
Utilize structured problem-solving and data-driven analysis to resolve sourcing and supplier issues, escalating complex or strategic matters to management with well-supported recommendations.