SENIOR BUYER I

LESTER ELECTRICAL OF NEBRASKA INC•Lincoln, NE

14d•$62,000 - $75,000

About The Position

Responsible for acquiring, purchasing and negotiating materials, equipment and supplies for requisitioned material. Negotiates with vendors to obtain quotations, prices and delivery times. Evaluates vendor quotes and services to determine compatibility with organizational objectives. Over sees purchasing logs and records to ensure accuracy and follow through. Monitors quality of goods by reviewing cost, schedules, timeliness of delivery and conformance to specifications. Controls annual purchases over $1 million. Knowledge of extrinsic factors relating to commodities purchased is required. Responsible for supporting overall supply chain performance through effective sourcing strategies, cost control, inventory management, and supplier performance monitoring. Utilizes ERP / MRP systems to manage purchasing activities, demand requirements, order tracking, and supplier performance data. Evaluates market conditions, supply risks, lead time trends, and sourcing factors to support uninterrupted production operations. Participate in cost reduction, supplier development, and continuous improvement initiatives supporting company objectives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant purchasing experience.
Experience working in an ERP / MRP driven manufacturing environment required.
Minimum five years progressively responsible purchasing or supply chain experience in a manufacturing environment.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Effective negotiation and problem-solving skills.
Four years of experience purchasing in an ISO or quality-controlled manufacturing environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience with supplier negotiations, contract management, and cost analysis preferred.
Proficiency with ERP systems (Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or similar) and strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel or equivalent data tools preferred.
Working knowledge of inventory control, MRP planning, lead time management, and supplier performance metrics preferred.
Familiarity with global sourcing, tariffs, country of origin requirements, and supply chain risk factors preferred.

Responsibilities

Develops suppliers who will consistently deliver a high-quality product on time, at the lowest total cost, with the intent of forming long-term, mutually beneficial relationships.
Maintains close relationships with suppliers to evaluate capabilities and keep abreast of current pricing, changes in lead time, market trends, and new material developments. Monitors market conditions, supply availability, and risk factors that may affect cost, lead time, or production continuity.
Places and manages orders for the purchase of components and other production, supply, and maintenance items as assigned, considering total cost, lead time, inventory levels, and demand requirements. Reviews of ERP / MRP demand signals and forecasts to ensure timely ordering and proper inventory levels.
Inputs all purchase orders with assigned computer P.O. numbers into the system. Maintains accurate data within the ERP / MRP system including supplier records, lead times, pricing, approved sources, and planning parameters. Keeps computer files updated on assigned production items including approved supplier files, reorder points, and qualified supplier listings.
Continually reviews and reschedules orders as required by production schedules to meet demand and maintain proper inventory levels. Advises Purchasing Manager and Production Scheduler of any significant delays in deliveries which may affect the production schedule. Proactively identifies potential shortages and implements corrective action including expediting, alternate sourcing, or schedule adjustment.
Works with suppliers and Quality Assurance to establish effective corrective action to prevent recurrence of non-conforming material. Works in conjunction with Quality and Receiving to handle disposition of damaged shipments or materials not conforming to specifications. Handles adjustments and return of material to suppliers; investigates short or long shipments or discrepancies in pricing for accounting.
Negotiates pricing, delivery terms, and agreements with major suppliers. Supports cost reduction initiatives through negotiation, sourcing changes, and supplier evaluation.
Assists Quality Assurance in certifying and maintaining certification of major suppliers. Participates in supplier audits, evaluations, and performance reviews as required.
Monitors supplier performance in areas of quality, pricing, delivery, and capacity. Maintains supplier performance metrics and provides periodic feedback to suppliers and management.
Cooperates with Engineering Department in locating materials or sources for new products, or which could improve quality, lower costs, and/or improve delivery on current products. Supports new product introduction by sourcing materials, identifying suppliers, and verifying lead times and costs.
Performs miscellaneous purchasing and supply chain duties as assigned by the Purchasing Manager. Participates in continuous improvement, cost savings, and supply chain optimization projects as required.