Buyer I

The Buyer I is responsible for procuring direct materials required to support manufacturing operations while ensuring inventory levels, supplier performance, and production requirements are met. This position serves as a key liaison between suppliers and internal cross-functional teams, managing procurement activities, monitoring material availability, and supporting supply chain initiatives that ensure on-time delivery and operational excellence.
The Buyer I will support manufacturing by planning and executing procurement activities, managing supplier relationships, monitoring inventory and material requirements through MRP systems, and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives across the supply chain. This position also assists in the transfer of new products from R&D into production and ensures compliance with all applicable regulatory and quality requirements.
Key ResponsibilitiesProcurement & Supply Management
Review purchase requisitions for accuracy and convert them into purchase orders within SAP.
Procure direct materials based on MRP planning requirements while adhering to supplier contracts and agreements.
Monitor inventory levels and material availability to support manufacturing schedules and inventory strategies.
Issue purchase orders and manage follow-up activities to ensure on-time delivery of materials.
Coordinate supplier returns and support Supplier Corrective Action Request (SCAR) activities when necessary.
Supplier Management
Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships through effective communication regarding delivery, quality, cost, transportation, and business requirements.
Evaluate supplier performance related to quality, reliability, delivery, and service.
Collaborate with Purchasing and Legal teams to resolve supplier concerns regarding contracts, terms and conditions, and other business matters.
Support supplier payment processes and ensure procurement documentation is complete and accurate.
Planning & Operations Support
Analyze demand requirements for raw materials, semi-finished goods, and finished goods, including products in phase-in and phase-out stages.
Maintain and update procurement and planning parameters within SAP.
Support production planning activities by identifying potential material shortages and supply risks.
Monitor daily manufacturing activities and proactively address material availability issues.
Assist in managing back-order risks and implementing recovery plans to minimize operational impact.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a primary point of contact for procurement-related activities within assigned commodities or business functions.
Partner with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, R&D, Planning, and Operations teams to support business objectives.
Assist in the successful transfer of R&D-developed products into commercial manufacturing.
Communicate material availability, technical concerns, quality issues, and supply risks to stakeholders.
Continuous Improvement & Compliance
Monitor and report key performance indicators (KPIs) related to inventory, supplier performance, and material availability.
Support departmental objectives and management-by-objective (MBO) initiatives.
Follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Work Instruction Documents (WIDs).
Ensure all work is performed in compliance with company quality standards and applicable regulatory requirements, including FDA, ISO, legal, ethical, and company-specific procedures.
Participate in continuous improvement efforts that enhance supply chain performance and operational efficiency.
Perform other duties and projects as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree required.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in the biotechnology, medical device, pharmaceutical, or manufacturing industry.
Experience with ERP systems; SAP experience strongly preferred.
APICS, ISM, or NAPM certification is a plus.
Experience procuring:
Electrical and mechanical components
Injection molded parts
Chemicals
Packaging and labeling ma