Commodity Buyer

Malvern Panalytical•Northampton, MA

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Commodity Buyer manages the full procurement lifecycle for assigned commodities, supporting manufacturing through cost control, supplier performance, and continuity of supply. This role focuses on machined components, sheet metal, and plastics, with a strong emphasis on plastic machining. The position plays a key role in collaborating with Engineering and Manufacturing to drive cost-effective sourcing decisions.

Requirements

3–4 years of purchasing or procurement experience within a manufacturing environment.
Experience sourcing machined components, sheet metal, and plastics, with a strong emphasis on machined plastic components.
Ability to read, understand, and discuss technical drawings and prints.
Experience negotiating with suppliers and supporting cost-saving initiatives.

Nice To Haves

Mechanical or technical background.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field (a plus, not required).
Experience participating in value analysis, cost-reduction, or design-to-cost activities.
Exposure to low-volume, high-mix manufacturing environments

Responsibilities

Manage the end-to-end procurement lifecycle for assigned commodities, including supplier selection, negotiation, contracting, and ongoing supplier management.
Lead value analysis and cost-reduction initiatives in partnership with Engineering and Manufacturing, identifying opportunities to reduce total cost while maintaining quality, performance, and reliability.
Collaborate with Engineering to review technical drawings, specifications, and designs, supporting design-to-cost, manufacturability improvements, and alternative sourcing recommendations.
Negotiate pricing, commercial terms, and contracts with suppliers to achieve cost savings, including improvements in purchase price variance (PPV).
Build and maintain strong supplier relationships, including regular communication, performance reviews, and supplier site visits.
Support sourcing and supplier engagement for new product introductions, engineering changes, and production transitions.
Work collaboratively within a small procurement team, providing backup support and contributing to shared objectives as needed.