Global Buyer I – MRO Supplies and Services

Carpenter Technology•Reading, PA

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Carpenter Technology Corporation is a leading producer and distributor of premium specialty alloys, including titanium alloys, nickel and cobalt based superalloys, stainless steels, alloy steels and tool steels.  Carpenter Technology’s high-performance materials and advanced process solutions are an integral part of critical applications used within the aerospace, transportation, medical and energy markets, among other markets. Building on its history of innovation, Carpenter Technology’s wrought and powder technology capabilities support a range of next-generation products and manufacturing techniques, including novel magnetic materials and additive manufacturing Position Title Global Buyer I – MRO Supplies and Services (Grade 15) FLSA Status: Exempt Location: Reading, PA or Latrobe, PA (Hybrid) Job Summary The Global Buyer I – MRO Supplies and Services is responsible for the strategic sourcing and procurement of Maintenance, Repair, and Operating (MRO) supplies and outside services across the enterprise. Reporting to the Global Procurement Manager – MRO, this role partners closely with Maintenance, Operations, Reliability, and EHS teams to ensure cost-effective, reliable supply of materials and services that support plant uptime and operational performance. The position drives value through cost optimization, supplier performance management, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement of MRO procurement processes in a multi-site industrial environment.

Requirements

Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, operations-focused, multi-site environment.
Willingness to travel periodically for site support, supplier reviews, and negotiations.
Strong attention to detail, ownership, and accountability for results.
Ability to influence and collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders at all levels.
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field required.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in sourcing and procurement with a strong focus on MRO supplies and services in an industrial or manufacturing environment.
Strong knowledge of MRO procurement, maintenance supply chains, and total cost of ownership concepts.
Proven experience in contract negotiation, supplier performance management, and cost reduction initiatives.
Experience managing MRO inventory strategies, critical spares, and working capital optimization.
Strong analytical skills with advanced Excel and data analysis capabilities.
Proficiency in ERP and procurement systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar).
Ability to leverage digital tools and emerging technologies, including AI, to improve procurement efficiency and insights.
Strategic sourcing and category management expertise.
Analytical, data-driven decision-making and problem-solving.
Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
Cross-functional collaboration and influence across operations, finance, and EHS.
Continuous improvement mindset with focus on efficiency, standardization, and automation.

Nice To Haves

Professional procurement certifications (e.g., CPSM, CIPS) preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end sourcing and category management for MRO supplies and services including spare parts, consumables, tools, PPE, repair services, calibration, and maintenance contractors.
Develop and execute MRO category strategies to optimize total cost of ownership, service levels, and supply continuity.
Source suppliers, negotiate contracts, and manage supplier relationships to deliver best-in-class service, cost, and performance.
Standardize specifications, rationalize SKUs and suppliers, and implement preferred supplier programs across sites.
Drive competitive sourcing events, contract negotiations, and commercial term optimization aligned with business objectives.
Monitor supplier performance, conduct reviews and audits, and manage issue resolution.
Track market trends, supplier risk, and availability of critical MRO categories to mitigate supply disruptions.
Deliver cost savings, cost avoidance, and productivity improvements through sourcing strategies and demand management.
Partner with Finance and Operations on budget planning, spend forecasting, and cost control initiatives.
Collaborate with Maintenance, Reliability, and Stores teams to optimize MRO inventory strategies, critical spares, and VMI/consignment programs.
Support asset reliability, uptime, safety, and maintenance productivity initiatives.
Ensure compliance with company policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements.
Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes, digital enablement, and Req-to-PO cycle efficiency.
Support audits, supplier qualifications, and special projects as assigned.