MRO Buyer Position Available In York, South Carolina

About our client Our client is a leading manufacturer in the renewable energy industry, focused on making a difference in the world by reducing carbon emissions and improving access to clean energy with every module they make. At our client’s company, the energy of their people is the power behind their success. Employees actively shape the solar innovations of tomorrow while adhering to the highest ethical operating standards and promoting a respectful and safe workplace for their diverse workforce. About the role Our clinet is seeking a strategic MRO and CAPEX Buyer to join their leading solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing team in the U.S. This role will oversee end-to-end procurement for both Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MR&O) materials and Capital Expenditures (CAPEX) related to solar PV production equipment and facility upgrades. You will play a critical role in optimizing supply chains, managing vendor relationships, and ensuring cost-effective acquisition of both operational maintenance items and long-term capital assets across our two U.S. manufacturing sites. Key Responsibilities 1. MR&O Procurement (Core Focus) Source, evaluate, and manage suppliers for MRO materials (e.g., equipment spare parts, maintenance tools, safety supplies, lubricants, electrical components) specific to solar PV manufacturing equipment (e.g., wafer saws, thin-film deposition systems, testing machines). Negotiate pricing, contracts, and delivery terms to achieve cost savings and secure reliable supply chains for day-to-day maintenance needs. Analyze historical usage data with maintenance teams to forecast demand, optimize inventory levels, and prevent production downtime. Ensure compliance with safety standards (OSHA, NFPA), environmental regulations (EPA), and industry quality requirements (IEC standards). Drive PR to PO process optimization activity 2. CAPEX Procurement (Expanded Role) Lead the procurement of capital assets, including new production equipment, facility upgrades, and technology systems (e.g., solar panel assembly lines, automation systems, energy storage solutions). Collaborate with engineering, operations, and finance teams to define CAPEX requirements, develop RFPs/RFQs, and evaluate vendor proposals for large-scale purchases. Negotiate long-term contracts, lease agreements, or financing options for CAPEX projects, ensuring alignment with budgetary constraints and ROI objectives. Manage vendor performance for CAPEX projects, including installation timelines, warranty terms, and post-purchase support. 3. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with maintenance, engineering, and finance teams to prioritize both urgent MR&O needs and strategic CAPEX initiatives. Coordinate with logistics and legal teams to manage customs clearance, installation logistics, and contract compliance for imported equipment or materials. Provide regular updates to leadership on procurement progress, cost variances, and risk mitigation strategies for both MR&O and CAPEX spend. 4. Cost Optimization & Compliance Identify opportunities to consolidate suppliers for both MR&O and CAPEX categories, leveraging volume discounts and standardized contracts. Ensure all procurement activities adhere to company policies, accounting standards (e.g., GAAP), and regulatory requirements (e.g., ITAR, EAR for imported equipment). Prepare performance reports on cost savings, on-time delivery rates, and asset utilization for both operational and capital purchases. Required Qualifications Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Business, or a related field. 5+ years of combined experience in MR&O and CAPEX procurement, preferably in manufacturing (solar PV, semiconductor, or heavy industrial sectors strongly preferred). Proven track record in managing high-value CAPEX projects ($500K+), including vendor selection, contract negotiation, and project coordination. Skills & Competencies Expertise in both operational procurement (MRO) and capital asset acquisition, with knowledge of solar PV manufacturing equipment (e.g., cell production lines, testing facilities). Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and procurement tools (e.g., Ariba, Coupa) for inventory and CAPEX tracking. Strong financial acumen to evaluate CAPEX proposals, ROI models, and depreciation strategies. Exceptional negotiation skills and the ability to manage complex vendor relationships across multiple categories. Attributes Strategic mindset with the ability to balance short-term maintenance needs with long-term capital investment goals. Detail-oriented with advanced problem-solving skills for resolving supply chain disruptions or contractual issues. Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities in a fast-growing renewable energy environment. Responsibilities Conduct market research to identify potential suppliers and assess their capabilities. Negotiate pricing and terms with vendors to secure favorable contracts. Manage procurement processes, ensuring timely delivery of goods and services. Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with supply chain management to optimize stock. Utilize ERP systems like SAP and Oracle EBS for effective materials management and reporting. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align purchasing strategies with production planning and merchandising goals.