Find & Apply For Buyer / Purchasing Agent Jobs in Meriden, Connecticut

The Senior Buyer will take ownership of sourcing strategy and day-to-day purchasing for raw materials and components spanning several production facilities. This role is responsible for planning and executing material and component purchases in a way that keeps customer commitments on track, inventory costs in check, and the production floor running smoothly. smoothly.

Primary Responsibilities:

Sourcing & Supplier Strategy Shape sourcing plans by category, bringing new suppliers into the mix when doing so improves quality, service, or overall cost. Lead contract negotiations — supply agreements, stocking arrangements, NDAs — and see them through to execution. Weigh make-versus-buy decisions against the site's broader operating strategy. Build and run a steady pipeline of cost-reduction initiatives with suppliers. Own the relationship with key suppliers, stepping in personally when quality, service, or cost issues need to be resolved. Day-to-Day Purchasing Generate and manage purchase orders, both direct and indirect, driven by MRP output or pull signals. Handle supplier-side changes such as pulled-in dates, pushed-out dates, and cancellations without disrupting service levels or inventory targets. Keep purchasing-related data current and accurate within the ERP system. Work through and close out supplier invoice discrepancies. Process & Team Development Collaborate with the wider supply chain function to roll out standardized processes and tools across sites. Track and report on purchasing performance, including on-time delivery, supplier scorecards, and inventory metrics. Join or lead Kaizen events aimed at tightening up purchasing workflows. Write and maintain SOPs, build training materials, and stand up new processes as needed. Mentor and help develop other members of the purchasing team.

Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Operations, or a similar field preferred A decade of experience in supply chain or purchasing, or an equivalent mix of education and hands-on experience At least three years working directly with MRP systems to execute supplier purchase orders APICS or ISM certification is a plus Previous exposure to lean methodologies is a plus

Success Factors/Job Competencies:

Solid grasp of how supplier costs are structured Proven ability to build supplier relationships, negotiate effectively, and see contracts through to execution Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills Comfortable operating with a fair amount of autonomy and judgment

Work Environment/Physical Requirements:

Primarily an office-based role with regular time spent on the production floor Frequent computer use for ERP, email, and reporting Occasional travel to supplier or facility locations Must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in

English Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Flexible spending account Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s): What is your desired salary?

Work Location:

In person