Buyer

Aston Carter•Oshkosh, WI

3d•Onsite

About The Position

This newly created Buyer role centralizes parts sourcing, procurement strategy, inventory optimization, and warranty analytics to support a growing organization. You will focus on analysis, strategy, and cost optimization to improve efficiency, reduce lead times, and drive meaningful cost savings across post‑sale parts and warranty performance. This position offers the opportunity to shape procurement practices, build strong supplier relationships, and influence key decisions that impact overall operational performance.

Requirements

Prior experience in parts sourcing, procurement, warranty analysis, or component strategy.
Strong understanding of mechanical parts, components, and assemblies.
Proven ability to analyze data, identify trends, and drive cost‑saving or efficiency initiatives.
Experience working with OEMs, suppliers, or vendor networks.
Proficiency in purchasing and procurement processes, including purchase order management.
Knowledge of parts inventory management and supply chain principles.
Ability to perform warranty data analysis and interpret warranty trends.
Strong negotiation skills to support cost efficiency and favorable supplier terms.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting.
Experience using ERP systems, including exposure to SAP or similar platforms.
Accurate data entry skills and attention to detail in purchasing and inventory records.
Effective communication skills with the ability to collaborate cross‑functionally with internal teams and external partners.

Nice To Haves

Background in a related industry such as automotive, manufacturing, mechanical systems, or parts/components distribution.
Experience in buying and purchasing roles with responsibility for cost and inventory performance.
Familiarity with sourcing strategies focused on cost efficiency and lead time reduction.
Ability to support and influence post‑sale parts and warranty performance through strategic procurement decisions.
Comfort working with OEM, vendor, and supplier networks to build and maintain strong relationships.
Continuous improvement mindset with an interest in refining processes around parts performance, warranty trends, and inventory management.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute strategic parts sourcing and procurement plans to improve cost efficiency, availability, and supplier performance.
Identify and qualify alternative suppliers and components to enhance cost effectiveness, mitigate risk, and ensure continuity of supply.
Analyze OEM parts pricing to identify opportunities for substitutions, sourcing alternatives, and improvements to pricing strategies.
Support post‑sale parts strategy by overseeing procurement, pricing considerations, and supplier selection for key components.
Analyze warranty data and trends to identify root causes of issues, sourcing opportunities, and strategies to reduce warranty costs.
Partner with internal stakeholders to improve warranty outcomes through better sourcing decisions and component selection, without directly processing warranty claims.
Monitor inventory levels, stocking strategies, and usage trends to balance product availability with cost control and inventory optimization.
Identify and implement opportunities to reduce lead times through improved supplier mix, sourcing strategies, and proactive procurement planning.
Collaborate closely with OEMs and vendor partners while evaluating and pursuing opportunities to source components independently when appropriate.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to parts performance, warranty trends, and inventory management processes.
Prepare, issue, and manage purchase orders while ensuring accuracy of data entry and alignment with procurement policies.
Use ERP systems and tools such as SAP and Microsoft Excel to manage purchasing activities, track parts inventory, and support data‑driven decision making.
Engage in supplier negotiations to support favorable pricing, terms, and service levels.
Maintain accurate records of purchasing activities, inventory levels, and warranty‑related findings to support reporting and analysis.