Category Buyer
About The Position
Develops and executes sourcing strategies for assigned commodities, products, or services. Leads supplier selection, sourcing, and negotiation activities; builds supplier relationships; manages supplier performance and continuous improvement; and supports cost reduction and productivity objectives. Collaborates with Engineering, Manufacturing, Finance, Operations, and Program Management, analyzes market trends and supplier capabilities, supports business continuity and supply chain risk mitigation, prepares recommendations for management review, and drives compliance with purchasing policies and procedures. This is a contract position based in Dearborn, Michigan, with a hybrid workplace. The stated pay range is $35.00–$45.00 per hour. Benefits may be available subject to eligibility and applicable plan terms.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Finance, Engineering, Operations, Economics, or a related field.
- At least 2 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, sourcing, supply chain, supplier management, manufacturing, engineering, operations, or related business functions.
- Purchasing experience in Direct Purchasing, Indirect Purchasing, or Services Purchasing.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and PowerPoint.
Nice To Haves
- Strategic sourcing experience.
- Supplier negotiation experience.
- Automotive, manufacturing, logistics, technology, or industrial industry experience.
- Experience managing supplier relationships and performance metrics.
- Knowledge of procurement systems and commercial contracting processes.
- Project management experience.
- Professional certifications such as CPSM, CPM, APICS, or similar credentials.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute sourcing strategies for assigned commodities, products, or services.
- Lead supplier selection, sourcing, and negotiation activities.
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships.
- Manage supplier performance and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Support cost reduction and productivity objectives.
- Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Finance, Operations, and Program Management.
- Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, and commercial opportunities.
- Support business continuity and supply chain risk mitigation activities.
- Prepare recommendations and presentations for management review.
- Drive compliance with purchasing policies and procedures.
Benefits
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan, with pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
- Voluntary life and AD&D insurance for the employee and dependents
- Short- and long-term disability
- Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Time off/leave, including PTO, vacation, or sick leave
