Buyer (Manufacturing / Supply Chain)

Job Summary
Express is working with a client in the Rochester area seeking a detail-oriented Buyer to manage the full purchasing lifecycle in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

This role is responsible for ensuring material availability to support production while balancing cost, inventory levels, and on-time delivery.

The ideal candidate has experience in procurement within a manufacturing setting, strong analytical skills, and the ability to build effective supplier relationships while navigating changing production demands.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing & Inventory Management

Analyze inventory levels, demand, lead times, and usage to determine purchasing needs
Create and manage purchase orders in ERP system (JDE, SAP, Oracle, etc.)
Ensure material availability to meet production schedules and customer demand
Balance inventory levels, service requirements, and working capital objectives
Monitor open orders and adjust purchasing decisions based on changing priorities

Supplier Management

Communicate with suppliers to confirm pricing, lead times, and delivery schedules
Track and follow up on orders to ensure on-time delivery
Resolve issues related to delays, shortages, quality concerns, and pricing discrepancies
Monitor supplier performance and support corrective actions as needed
Identify supply risks (long lead times, capacity constraints, single-source suppliers) and escalate as appropriate
Support negotiations for pricing, delivery, and terms within defined authority

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner with Planning and Operations to align purchasing with production needs
Work with Engineering to source custom, precision, and long-lead components
Coordinate with Quality on supplier-related issues and resolutions
Support Finance and Accounts Payable with invoice and payment discrepancies

Systems & Continuous Improvement

Maintain accurate data in ERP systems (pricing, lead times, supplier info, item setup)
Use reporting tools to support data-driven purchasing decisions
Identify process improvements in purchasing and supplier management
Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives

Qualifications

Associate degree or equivalent experience required; Bachelor’s degree preferred
4–6+ years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain
Experience in a manufacturing or production environment required
Experience working in fast-paced, production-driven environments
ERP system experience (JDE, SAP, Oracle, or similar)

Skills & Abilities

Strong knowledge of purchasing and materials management practices
Ability to analyze inventory, demand, and supply data
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing demands
Strong communication and relationship-building skills
Problem-solving mindset with the ability to resolve issues independently
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and standard business tools
Understanding of lean manufacturing principles (preferred)

Express Office: Rochester

3400 Monroe Avenue

Unit 9

Rochester, NY 14618

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