Buyer/Planner

Position Summary
The Buyer/Planner is responsible for executing purchasing and planning activities to ensure the timely and cost-effective procurement of materials, components, equipment, and services. This role plays a critical part in maintaining optimal inventory levels and supporting uninterrupted supply chain and manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage purchasing activities for assigned materials and services, including obtaining competitive quotations and identifying alternative suppliers based on quality, cost, lead time, and service.

• Review inventory levels and safety stocks to align with business requirements.

• Develop and maintain long-term supplier relationships that deliver competitive advantages such as reduced costs, high-quality products, and superior service.

• Monitor MRP to ensure requisitions and purchase orders are aligned with demand; take proactive measures to resolve issues, including expediting when necessary.

• Serve as a liaison for internal departments on purchase order management inquiries.

• Oversee supplier performance and maintain accurate open purchase order records to support ERP data integrity and on-time delivery KPIs.

• Negotiate with key suppliers to maintain cost discipline and identify opportunities for savings.

• Coordinate with Quality and Finance teams to onboard suppliers and ensure compliance with approved supplier lists.

• Track and report on individual and/or team metrics.

• Support Lean and EHS initiatives across the organization.

• Perform other duties or special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related discipline; or equivalent experience.

• ASCM or related professional certification preferred.

• 2–4 years of purchasing or planning experience, ideally in medical device or biotech manufacturing (internship experience considered).

• Working knowledge of quality system regulations and MRP/ERP systems.

Desired Skills & Experience

• Ability to collaborate effectively with manufacturing, quality, engineering, R&D, finance, and sales/marketing teams.

• Strong understanding of specifications, quality, delivery, and cost requirements to drive successful procurement outcomes.

• Proven ability to build and manage relationships with external suppliers.

• Self-starter with the ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.

• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and analytical capabilities.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including presentation skills.

• Proficiency in MS Office; SAP experience strongly preferred.

• Prior contract or supplier management experience is a plus.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None.