Senior Buyer/Purchasing Manager

Senior Buyer/Purchasing Manager

Summary:

The Senior Buyer / Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading the purchasing function to ensure the timely, cost-effective procurement of materials, products, and services. This role combines strategic supplier management with hands-on buying responsibilities and plays a key role in managing vendor relationships, negotiating contracts, analyzing purchasing trends, and supporting inventory and production planning. The ideal candidate brings strong negotiation skills, purchasing expertise, and a proactive, detail-oriented approach to procurement.

Responsibilities and Duties:

· Serve as the Manager of two other Buyers.

· Manage the full procurement lifecycle, including sourcing, negotiating, issuing purchase orders, expediting, and managing supplier performance.

· Source and procure aerospace-grade raw materials, hardware, and outsourced services (e.g., NDT, heat treatment).

· Ensure all purchased materials and services meet aerospace specifications, certifications (e.g., AS9100, NADCAP), and traceability requirements.

· Develop and maintain a reliable supplier base, including evaluating new suppliers and conducting audits when necessary.

· Negotiate long-term agreements and spot purchases to achieve the best value in cost, quality, lead time, and delivery reliability.

· Coordinate with Engineering, Quality, Production, and Scheduling teams to ensure material availability aligns with job priorities and production schedules.

· Proactively manage inventory levels to balance cost control with on-time delivery.

· Monitor market trends and supply chain risks related to aerospace materials and advise leadership accordingly.

· Maintain accurate records in ERP/MRP systems, including lead times, pricing, and material certifications.

· Support continuous improvement initiatives and compliance with internal procedures and external regulatory standards.

Qualifications:

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with individuals at all levels of the organization.

· Strong negotiation skills.

- Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to identify process. inefficiencies and implement effective solutions.

- Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects in a fast-paced environment.

- Ability to lead teams and drive change initiatives.

· Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel at a minimum.

· Self-motivated

Education and Experience:

· Bachelor’s degree.

· Degree in supply chain management, logistics or business administration preferred.

· Previous experience in a manufacturing environment. Aerospace and/or Metals preferred.

· 3-5 years of previous management experience in purchasing environment.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $80,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- 401(k) matching

- Dental insurance

- Employee assistance program

- Flexible spending account

- Health insurance

- Health savings account

- Life insurance

- Paid time off

- Tuition reimbursement

- Vision insurance

Work Location: In person