Buyer

Hitachi•Lake Orion, MI

12d•Hybrid

About The Position

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is seeking a Buyer in Lake Orion, Michigan. This hybrid role manages end-to-end procurement for complex automation projects, ensuring materials and engineered components are sourced, negotiated, and delivered on schedule from project kickoff through installation. The Buyer works closely with Engineering, Project Management, and suppliers to manage RFQs/RFPs, control costs, mitigate supply-chain risks, and support successful project execution. The role involves purchasing low-volume, high-mix engineered components and custom assemblies in an automation environment. Candidates should bring technical aptitude, supplier negotiation skills, and the ability to interpret drawings, bills of materials, and engineering specifications. A bachelor’s degree is preferred, although equivalent professional experience will be considered. JR Automation offers competitive wages, medical benefits starting on the first day, paid parental leave, career growth and skill-development opportunities, and a collaborative, engineering-driven environment. The company also highlights work on customized automation projects and innovative technologies.

Requirements

Procurement or sourcing experience in manufacturing, automation, mechatronics, robotics, or an engineered-to-order environment.
Experience managing project-based purchasing from kickoff through installation or commissioning.
Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems for purchase order management, lead-time updates, supplier acknowledgments, and demand planning.
Ability to interpret mechanical and controls drawings, BOMs, engineering specifications, and revision documentation.
Understanding of industrial and automation components, including pneumatics, sensors, fasteners, electrical hardware, drives, and safety devices.
Strong negotiation skills covering price, delivery terms, and commercial conditions.
Experience conducting RFQs/RFPs and evaluating supplier proposals for technical and commercial fit.
Intermediate proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, and data analysis.
Successful completion of a 10-panel drug screen, physical examination, and background check.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related technical field; equivalent professional experience will be considered.
Experience purchasing low-volume, high-mix engineered components and custom assemblies.

Responsibilities

Manage project procurement from kickoff through FAT, shipment, and installation, aligning purchasing with project schedules and customer requirements.
Lead RFQs/RFPs for complex automation components, including robotics, mechatronics assemblies, conveyors, packaging systems, and controls hardware.
Negotiate pricing, lead times, and commercial terms for engineered components and custom assemblies.
Interpret mechanical and controls drawings, BOMs, customer specifications, and revision updates to ensure accurate, compliant procurement.
Monitor supplier lead times, capacity, and delivery performance, adjusting schedules to meet project milestones and mitigate risk.
Partner with Project Management to track budgets, forecast procurement spend, and manage cost or schedule impacts.
Support Strategic Sourcing in evaluating supplier quality, delivery, responsiveness, and capability.
Drive cost-reduction initiatives through alternative sourcing, material substitutions, commercial negotiations, and value engineering.
Support inventory strategy and material availability for standard components such as pneumatics, fasteners, sensors, drives, and safety hardware.