Lumber Buyer

Job Summary The Lumber Buyer is a strategic procurement professional responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and managing the purchase of all lumber and related wood products across the entire organization. This role ensures a reliable, cost-effective, and high-quality supply of lumber to support production, manufacturing, construction, or operational needs at multiple facilities or divisions. With a focus on market volatility, supplier partnerships, and risk mitigation, the Senior Lumber Buyer drives enterprise-wide cost savings, inventory optimization, and compliance while forecasting demand and developing long-term procurement strategies. This is a senior-level individual contributor position ideal for an experienced professional with deep industry expertise. Pay rate is based on level of experience Essential Duties and Responsibilities Lead the sourcing and procurement of lumber (hardwood, softwood, green, dry, and specialty grades) and related wood products from domestic and international suppliers, mills, distributors, and brokers to meet the organization's multi-site requirements. Negotiate complex contracts, pricing, terms, volume commitments, and delivery schedules to secure favorable conditions while achieving significant cost savings and mitigating supply chain risks. Build, maintain, and expand strategic relationships with key lumber suppliers and partners; develop new sources of supply through vendor education, site visits, and market intelligence. Monitor lumber market trends, commodity pricing, supply/demand forecasts, industry factors (e.g., weather, tariffs, sustainability regulations), and economic indicators to inform timely purchasing decisions and hedging strategies. Collaborate with production, inventory, operations, and finance teams across the organization to forecast lumber needs, align purchases with production schedules, and maintain optimal inventory levels that minimize carrying costs and stockouts. Evaluate and ensure the quality of incoming lumber meets company specifications, industry standards, and sustainability requirements Manage supplier performance, resolve delivery or quality issues, conduct regular audits, and implement corrective actions to maintain reliability and compliance. Prepare and present reports on purchasing activities, market conditions, cost analyses, and savings initiatives to senior leadership. Identify and execute cost-saving opportunities, process improvements, and alternative sourcing strategies without compromising quality or service. Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, industry regulations, safety standards, and ethical sourcing guidelines. Coordinate spot buys, block purchases, and seasonal buying programs as needed; travel to supplier facilities when required. Work cross-functionally to support organization-wide initiatives such as inventory optimization, supply chain resilience, and sustainability goals.

Qualifications and Requirements Experience:

Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in lumber purchasing, wood products procurement, supply chain, or commodity trading, preferably in manufacturing, construction, furniture, or related industries. Demonstrated success managing large-volume or multi-location lumber procurement is required.

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Forestry, Wood Science, or a related field (preferred). Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Deep knowledge of lumber markets, commodity trading, species, grades, quality standards, and industry terminology. Proven expertise in negotiation, contract management, and supplier relationship building. Strong analytical and forecasting skills with the ability to interpret market data, pricing trends, and ERP/inventory reports. Proficiency in procurement software, inventory management systems. Excellent verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, volatile market environment and make data-driven decisions under pressure. Understanding of supply chain principles, inventory control, warehousing, and logistics. Knowledge of relevant regulations, compliance standards, and sustainability practices in the lumber/forest products industry. High level of integrity, attention to detail, and problem-solving orientation.

Physical and Other Requirements:

Ability to travel occasionally (up to 20%) to supplier mills, trade shows, or company facilities. Comfortable working in both office and occasional industrial/warehouse environments. Must be able to perform essential office functions, including computer use, phone communication, and light lifting as needed. This position offers a critical opportunity to impact the organization's profitability and operational efficiency through expert lumber procurement. Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience, including base salary, performance bonuses, and benefits. Relocation package is available for the right candidate.

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s): This is a in person role, are you able to work in Leesburg, FL?

Experience:

Lumber Procurement:

7 years (Required) Commodity trading knowledge: 5 years (Required) Ability to

Relocate:

Leesburg, FL 34748: Relocate with an employer provided relocation package (Required)

Work Location:

In person