Sr. BuyerStatus: Exempt
Department: Purchasing/Supply Chain
Position SummaryThe Sr. Buyer serves a critical role to Plug Power by working to procure necessary parts and components in support of the manufacturing operation while also acting as a lead resource for the rest of the purchasing team. The Sr. Buyer role must establish very strong and mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers and therefore requires dynamic interpersonal skills. A most successful Sr. Buyer exhibits timely and accurate transactional work, exceptional cross-functional collaboration, hands-on communication skills, and untiring follow-up to ensure completion of critical tasks and projects. The ideal candidate is able to self-manage projects and company initiatives with limited direction required from management. This individual may be involved in negotiating short- and long-term agreements, incorporating strategic purchasing initiatives, developing and implementing procurement strategies. Additionally, the Sr. Buyer will be looked to as a purchasing team lead and will service as an advisor and mentor to other purchasing staff.
Core Duties and Responsibilities- Perform transactional duties including placing of purchase orders to procure material in support of manufacturing and other business functions
- Build and maintain effective cross-functional relationships; communicate regularly to maintain an understanding of timelines and activities which impact supply chain
- Act as a primary partner to the manufacturing operation by understanding build schedules and managing supply chain activities to increase efficiency and eliminate downtime
- Take responsibility for accurate and on-time delivery of parts and components; follow-up on PO's with suppliers and manage delivery date expectations as necessary with all relevant stakeholders
- Understand material specifications and quality metrics affecting assigned parts and components; work collaboratively to resolve quality issues with suppliers
- Develop strong relationships with suppliers and communicate regularly; manage date pull-ins and push-outs on an ongoing basis
- Serve as a mentor and advisor to the purchasing team, guiding and directing activities of fellow Buyers as needed
- Train new team members, acting as advisor and resource
- Leverage positive working relationships with suppliers based upon mutual benefit; seek favorable terms and conditions which positively impact pricing, quality, payment terms, and others as applicable
- Track supplier performance and provide regular feedback to relevant stakeholders; set clear expectations with suppliers and work to add/replace suppliers as needed for optimal business results
- Collaborate with colleagues in the finance department to resolve supplier payment issues
- Represent Plug Power in a professional manner at all times and in all interactions
- Perform all other duties as assigned
Education and Experience- Bachelors degree in Engineering, Business, or other applicable field of study and five (5) or more years of related work experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Experience within a technology manufacturing environment is highly preferred
- Must be capable of working independently, in a fast-paced environment, with minimal supervision
- Demonstrated analytical abilities with strong attention to detail
- Superior communication skills
- Proficient with Microsoft Office software including highly developed skills within Excel
- Ability to manage projects and multi-task effectively
- Ability to role model high standards of professionalism
- Excellent follow-through
- Must be driven and self-motivated
- Must possess the highest ethical standards and a supreme commitment to quality
- Exempt employees are expected to work as many hours as is necessary to complete their job responsibilities. This may require they work more than eight hours a day and more than five days or 40 hours per week.
