Buyer
Location: Kitchener, Ontario
Position Overview
A manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Buyer to support its purchasing and supply chain operations. This individual will be responsible for maintaining a reliable supply of materials, managing supplier relationships, supporting inventory goals, and identifying opportunities to improve cost, quality, and delivery performance.
The ideal candidate is a proactive and organized purchasing professional who can balance daily operational needs with longer-term sourcing and process improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage purchasing activities to support production and operational requirements
- Review material requirements and issue purchase orders using an ERP or MRP system
- Purchase materials and components from domestic and international suppliers
- Monitor open and past-due purchase orders and communicate regularly with suppliers regarding delivery dates
- Maintain accurate purchasing information, including pricing, quantities, lead times, and delivery commitments
- Develop and maintain positive relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders
- Support supplier sourcing, evaluation, negotiation, and cost-reduction initiatives
- Identify supply risks and work with internal teams and suppliers to resolve shortages or delivery concerns
- Collaborate with production, planning, quality, engineering, customer service, and other departments
- Support inventory planning, forecasting, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Help document and improve purchasing processes and procedures
- Provide guidance and support to other members of the purchasing team
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations, or a related field
- Five or more years of purchasing, procurement, or supply chain experience
- Previous experience purchasing materials or components from international suppliers
- Previous experience in a manufacturing environment
- Experience with supplier negotiations, inventory control, and purchase order management
- Proficiency with ERP or MRP systems and Microsoft Office
- Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across departments
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous leadership or team-development experience
- Experience purchasing manufactured components, raw materials, or technical products
- Experience with forecasting, replenishment planning, or lean manufacturing principles
- Supply chain certification is considered an asset
Additional Information
This position is based in a manufacturing environment in Kitchener, Ontario. Occasional travel or communication outside regular business hours may be required.
