Buyer

Hitachi•Lake Orion, MI

10d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Buyer 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 role works closely with Engineering, Project Management, and suppliers to manage RFQs/RFPs, control costs, mitigate supply-chain risks, and support successful project execution. The position is hybrid in Lake Orion, Michigan.

Requirements

Procurement or sourcing experience in a manufacturing, automation, mechatronics, robotics, or engineered-to-order environment.
Demonstrated 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 Microsoft Excel proficiency, including pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, and data analysis.
Must successfully complete 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 is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage project procurement from kickoff through FAT, shipment, and installation, aligning procurement 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 low-volume, high-mix 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; adjust schedules proactively 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 efforts 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.