Purchasing Associate

Position Summary

The Purchasing Associate / Buyer supports manufacturing operations by ensuring raw materials, components, tooling, and outside services are sourced, ordered, and delivered on time and at the right cost. This is a hands‑on, production‑driven role that works closely with suppliers, production, Shipping & Receiving, Quality, Engineering, and Sales in a precision machining environment serving aerospace, medical, and advanced manufacturing customers.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and manage suppliers; issue and maintain purchase orders for raw materials, components, tooling, maintenance supplies, and outside processing.


• Track open orders and shipments daily, communicating with vendors to confirm pricing, lead times, and delivery status.


• Expedite materials and services as needed to support production schedules and minimize downtime.


• Coordinate closely with Shipping & Receiving to ensure timely receipt of materials and outside services.


• Quote, schedule, and manage outside processing requirements, coordinating with Quality, Engineering, and Sales as needed.


• Update manufacturing teams on incoming material status and proactively follow up on delivery timelines.


• Issue materials to jobs running in the shop and support shop floor needs.


• Monitor supplier performance using KPIs and resolve discrepancies, shortages, or delivery issues.


• Maintain accurate purchasing, inventory, and supplier data within the ERP system.


• Support continuous improvement efforts related to purchasing processes, inventory flow, and supplier performance.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in purchasing, buying, or procurement within a manufacturing environment preferred.


• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred (or equivalent experience).


• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office.


• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced, production‑driven environment.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong interpersonal abilities.


• Highly detail‑oriented, analytical, and accurate with strong documentation practices.


• Self‑motivated with a sense of urgency and a collaborative, team‑first mindset.