Job Description

Position Summary

Responsible for securing the best possible vendor agreements through market research, supplier negotiations, and strategic purchasing practices. Supports sourcing and procurement of raw materials, goods, and services while maintaining strong supplier relationships, ensuring cost savings, and minimizing supply chain risk.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred, or High School Diploma with equivalent experience
• Experience within the aerospace industry
• Strong background in raw material purchasing
• Knowledge of applicable industry standards and regulations
• Strong negotiation and supplier relationship management skills
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and computer systems
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to read and interpret work instructions
• Ability to multitask and adapt to changing priorities
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Detail-oriented with excellent follow-through
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
• Ability to identify process improvements and implement efficiency strategies
• Ability to train and mentor other buyers
• Project management and planning capabilities
• Experience researching and evaluating market conditions

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, PPE requirements, and company safety culture
• Analyze vendors and identify cost-saving opportunities
• Review requisitions, create purchase orders, and monitor order status for on-time delivery
• Source and evaluate suppliers while negotiating pricing, terms, and delivery schedules
• Maintain accurate purchasing data and purchase orders within operating systems
• Purchase materials at the most favorable cost while meeting quality and specification requirements
• Communicate effectively with suppliers, vendors, and internal departments
• Maintain supplier records and raw material certification documentation
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, shipping terms, and delivery expectations aligned with company objectives
• Attend weekly production meetings to provide updates on raw material status
• Build and maintain strong supplier partnerships to ensure reliable supply and competitive pricing
• Resolve quality and delivery discrepancies while maintaining timely communication with stakeholders
• Handle vendor rejections, settlements, and defective material claims
• Coordinate internal and external logistics, including pickups, deliveries, and truck maintenance
• Maintain organized work areas in accordance with 6S procedures
• Collaborate with engineering and cost improvement teams on new materials, designs, and suppliers
• Visit vendor facilities to evaluate capabilities and operational performance
• Evaluate vendor pricing structures and F.O.B. points to reduce supply chain risk
• Provide on-the-job training to new and existing employees
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Working Conditions

• Manufacturing and production environment
• Exposure to high noise levels, moving machinery, metal edges, fumes, dust, mist, oils, and forklifts
• May require travel between Southwick and Westfield facilities

Physical Requirements

• Ability to read customer documents with or without corrective lenses
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds as needed
• Ability to stand, walk, sit, bend, climb stairs, push, pull, and reach overhead for extended periods of time

You should be proficient in:

• Bachelor's Degree
• Supplier Management
• ERP & MRP Systems
• Inventory Management & Control
• Supply Chain Management