SummaryThe Senior Buyer (Purchasing) plays a critical role in supporting CTOS/Load King operations by ensuring the right parts are purchased, at the right time, in the right quantities, and at the right cost. This position is accountable for executing and optimizing daily purchasing activities through our ERP/MRP systems while maintaining strict alignment with production schedules, inventory strategies, and business priorities. The Senior Buyer is expected to leverage data, identify strategic buying opportunities, eliminate gaps in material availability, and drive an elevated level of accuracy and follow-through across the purchasing process.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities- Execute purchase orders in accordance with ERP/MRP recommendations, planning parameters, production needs, and company policies.
- Monitor inventory levels, forecasts, planning data, and usage trends to identify opportunities for bulk buys, scheduling improvements, and long-term cost savings.
- Partner daily with Operations, Planning, Inventory Control, Engineering, and Finance to ensure material flow supports production readiness and company goals.
- Review, refine, and standardize purchasing processes to improve efficiency, accuracy, compliance, and overall communication.
- Use data and reporting to identify cost-down opportunities, prevent material shortages, minimize excess inventory, and support key Supply Chain metrics.
- Ensure purchasing records, audit documentation, and system transactions are accurate, timely, and complete.
- Serve as a resource and subject-matter expert for Buyers, Expeditors, and Purchasing Specialists, support training, problem-solving, and escalation management.
- Collaborate directly with existing suppliers on order status, delivery issues, invoice discrepancies, and corrective actions to ensure on-time performance. (Note: This role does not qualify new suppliers.)
Required Skills and QualificationsQualifications include:
- 3-5+ years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment, preferably high-mix/low-volume like CTOS/Load King.
- Strong working knowledge of ERP/MRP systems and planning logic; advanced Excel and data-analysis capability required.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret purchasing and operational data to drive improved cost, accuracy, and material availability.
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and maintain strong follow-up discipline.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment with short lead times and shifting production demands.
- Continuous-improvement mindset with strong problem-solving skills and a commitment to closing gaps and driving accountability.
Physical Requirements- Occasionally lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 25, 50, and 80 pounds.
- Respond quickly to sounds in the work environment.
- Move safely over uneven terrain and within confined spaces.
- See and appropriately respond to potentially dangerous situations.
- Stoop, kneel, crouch, and/or crawl for extended periods during an 8-12 hour shift.
- Work in extreme weather conditions as required.
- Wear required personal protective equipment correctly and consistently.
Preferred Skills and Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, or related field preferred.
- Experience supporting high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environments with tight production windows.
- Proven success in reducing lead times, improving supplier performance, or driving measurable cost savings.
- Working knowledge of material planning parameters (safety stock, planning time fences, acquisition codes, etc.).
- Experience collaborating with Engineering on BOM changes, ECO/ECR impacts, and material transitions.
- Familiarity with VMI programs, consignment models, or supplier-managed logistics.
- Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, formulas, data modeling, and large-dataset analysis).
- Ability to manage escalations, hold suppliers accountable, and drive corrective actions with urgency.
- Demonstrated success in standardizing processes and improving cross-functional communication.
Working Conditions- Ability to stand/sit for extended periods.
- Ability to bend, stoop, or crouch in uncomfortable positions to reach various parts.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
BENEFITS- 401(k) with Employer Match
- Competitive Health Care
- Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- Paid Vacation, Sick and Holidays
- STD/ LTD
- Partner Discounts
- Investment in Employee Development
