Buyer Our client is seeking a Buyer to support purchasing and supplier management activities across the organization. This individual will work closely with internal teams and external suppliers to source materials, products, and services while balancing cost, quality, availability, and business needs. The ideal candidate is analytical, organized, and collaborative, with strong negotiation skills and the ability to make informed purchasing decisions in a dynamic environment. This role is on-site in Portland, Oregon. Buyer Responsibilities Manage sourcing and purchasing activities for assigned materials, products, and services, ensuring business requirements are met in a timely and cost-effective manner. Identify, evaluate, and engage suppliers based on capabilities, pricing, quality, service, and overall business fit. Negotiate pricing, contractual terms, and other commercial conditions with suppliers to achieve favorable outcomes. Partner with internal stakeholders to understand purchasing requirements, specifications, priorities, and anticipated demand. Develop and execute procurement approaches that support cost savings, supplier performance, and operational objectives. Monitor supplier performance and proactively address delivery, quality, pricing, or service-related issues. Analyze purchasing data, market conditions, and supplier information to support sourcing decisions and identify opportunities for improvement. Maintain accurate purchasing documentation, supplier records, agreements, and related procurement information. Collaborate with cross-functional partners on category management, sourcing, and broader supply chain initiatives. Apply root cause analysis and continuous improvement practices to strengthen procurement processes and resolve recurring issues. Maintain awareness of relevant market trends, supply conditions, and regulatory requirements that may impact purchasing activities. Buyer Qualifications Previous experience as a Buyer, Procurement Specialist, Purchasing Agent, or similar sourcing/procurement professional. Strong understanding of purchasing practices, supplier management, sourcing, negotiation, and procurement processes. Demonstrated ability to negotiate effectively and develop productive relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate data and make sound purchasing decisions. Working knowledge of materials management and supply chain principles. Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple purchasing needs and deadlines. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a collaborative approach to cross-functional work. Proficiency with procurement, purchasing, or related enterprise systems and software. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications. Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or a related discipline. Familiarity with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) requirements is preferred.

Salary:

$65K-$70K/year. (DOE) Benefits Benefits are available to eligible full-time employees and include coverage for medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long term disability, and matching 401k. Meet VanderHouwen What kind of recruiter do you see yourself working with? One who prioritizes your best interest, no matter what? VanderHouwen does, and we're in it for the long game! Our recruiters focus on YOU, building meaningful, long-term relationships while developing a deep understanding of companies' staffing needs and workplace cultures. This approach helps us find an ideal job match that aligns with your unique career aspirations and goals. VanderHouwen is an award-winning, Women & Diversity-Owned, WBENC certified professional staffing firm. Founded in 1987, VanderHouwen places experienced professionals across the nation! Our recruitment teams specialize in either Technology and IT, Engineering, Human Resources, or Accounting and Finance career markets. Partner with us to land your next exciting career! VanderHouwen is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. VanderHouwen does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal civil rights laws.