Buyer I

First Solar (US)•Perrysburg, OH

11d•$48,400 - $69,000

About The Position

The Buyer I executes purchasing activities for assigned materials, services, and equipment. The role obtains bids, prepares purchase orders, and ensures transactions align with approved requisitions and standard terms and conditions. It supports supplier negotiations on pricing, delivery, and terms; assists with supplier qualification and onboarding; and maintains continuity of supply by monitoring demand, placing orders, and adjusting delivery schedules to production requirements. The Buyer I also creates and maintains accurate master data for planning and purchase order execution. The position works with minimal direction to research potential suppliers, maintain inventory levels, manage purchase order schedules, address supplier quality issues, and review aging purchase orders. It collaborates with suppliers and internal departments, supports teamwork and cross-functional communication, and adheres to First Solar processes and requirements, including safety, SOA, ISO9000, ISO14000, and housekeeping standards. The job description may change at any time. Travel is 5%–10%.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a business or supply chain discipline, or equivalent experience.
Experience with commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within Supply Chain.
Proven organizational skills and ability to prioritize.
Good computer skills, including Microsoft Office or equivalent.
Familiarity with negotiation approaches and methods.
Good communication and interpersonal skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a manufacturing environment.
Experience with MRP concepts and one or more ERP systems; SAP or Oracle preferred.
APICS certification.

Responsibilities

Ensure purchase requisitions and purchase orders are accurate, complete, properly approved, and contain negotiated pricing for assigned suppliers.
Research and evaluate potential new suppliers to identify opportunities for improved pricing, delivery performance, and quality.
Support supplier qualification by gathering information, coordinating evaluations, and communicating with internal stakeholders.
Monitor and maintain inventory levels for assigned materials in alignment with established targets and production needs.
Expedite or de-expedite purchase orders and adjust scheduled quantities as needed to support changes in production demand or material requirements.
Communicate supplier quality issues and collaborate with internal teams and suppliers on root-cause analysis, corrective actions, and material disposition.
Review and analyze aging purchase orders to ensure timely updates, accuracy, and closure.
Collaborate cross-functionally with departments and maintain effective communication with assigned suppliers.
Create and maintain accurate master data for planning, purchasing, and material management processes.
Maintain effective communication, support teamwork, and foster a collaborative work environment while considering impacts across functions and the organization.
Adhere to First Solar processes and requirements, including safety, SOA, ISO9000, ISO14000, and housekeeping standards.
Perform other duties as assigned.