Buyer / Procurement Specialist - Manufacturing - Aurora - Pelsue

Description

Who We Are

Pelsue is an industry leader in manufacturing worker safety products and vehicles for the telephone, utility, and satellite communications industries. We recently moved to a new facility in Aurora, CO. Multiple production areas in the factory include a metal fabrication shop, trailer and van manufacturing flow lines, specialty vehicle build stations, safety product lines, and an in-house tent shop.

Who You Are

A Buyer at Pelsue is a strategic thinker, detail-oriented professional, and strong negotiator who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You understand the delicate balance of supply and demand, ensuring materials are available when needed without excess inventory. In this role, you collaborate closely with Supply Chain leadership (Managers and Senior Managers) and other cross-functional teams-such as Logistics, Planning, Production, and Finance-to maintain strong supplier relationships, stable lead times, and cost efficiency.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Level 3 – Buyer

Commodity Procurement & Cost Optimization

• Manage procurement of assigned commodities, ensuring a stable supply while controlling costs and quality.
• Negotiate pricing, delivery terms, and service level agreements with suppliers.
• Proactively identify opportunities for cost savings or process improvements.

Supplier Management & Performance

• Build and maintain relationships with key suppliers; monitor performance for on-time delivery, quality, and cost.
• Work with the Supply Chain Manager and cross-functional teams to resolve supplier issues or address risks (e.g., lead-time variability, quality concerns).
• Conduct market research to find optimal suppliers, evaluating factors such as capacity, reliability, and total landed cost.

Inventory & Scheduling Alignment

• Collaborate with production planners and material handlers to streamline material flow.
• Ensure forecasts and purchase orders are aligned to prevent excess inventory or stock-outs.
• Use data-driven analysis (e.g., usage rates, lead times) to recommend safety stock levels.

Mentorship & Team Support

• Train and support Junior Buyers on day-to-day purchasing activities and best practices.
• Contribute to cross-functional projects with Planning, Logistics, and Operations to improve the supply chain process.

Level 4 – Senior Buyer

Strategic Procurement Leadership

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for critical or high-value materials in alignment with the Senior Supply Chain Manager's broader vision.
• Lead complex contract negotiations, focusing on long-term supplier partnerships, cost reduction, and supplier performance.
• Evaluate and mitigate supply chain risks by establishing contingency plans, dual sourcing, or alternative suppliers.

Supplier Partnership & Audits

• Establish robust relationships with strategic suppliers, fostering continuous improvement in quality, service, and cost.
• Conduct supplier audits or performance reviews, coordinating corrective actions where necessary.
• Champion supplier development programs and participate in cross-functional supplier assessments.

Process Improvement & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with the Senior Supply Chain Manager, Logistics, and Planning teams to align purchasing strategies with production schedules and inventory targets.
• Drive initiatives to improve procurement processes (e.g., e-sourcing, advanced analytics, supplier scorecards).
• Provide mentorship and training to Buyers and Junior Buyers, sharing best practices and industry knowledge.

Competencies

Negotiation & Communication: Skilled at negotiating terms, pricing, and contracts while maintaining professional supplier relationships.

Analytical & Detail-Oriented: Ability to interpret data from ERP/MRP systems, identify trends, and make informed procurement decisions.

Collaboration: Works closely with Supply Chain, Planning, Logistics, and other teams to achieve company objectives.

Strategic Thinking(Level 3): Identifies long-term procurement opportunities, develops robust sourcing strategies, and mitigates risks.

Core Values: Upholds Trust in supplier relationships, exhibits Ownership in procurement decisions, demonstrates Discipline in financial responsibility, and aligns with Pelsue's overall supply chain objectives.

Leadership Responsibilities

Level 3: Mentors and coaches Junior Buyers, providing support in daily procurement tasks.

Level 4: Provides strategic direction and mentorship to all levels of Buyers; may collaborate with or report directly to the Senior Supply Chain Manager on high-level procurement initiatives.

Work Environment

Primarily in an office environment with regular engagement on the shop floor and warehouse areas to address material or quality issues.

Some exposure to production noise and movement of equipment during supplier visits or floor inspections.

Physical Demands

Primarily sedentary with extensive use of a computer.

Occasional standing, walking, or lifting items up to 25 lbs. when handling samples or inventory checks.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

Full-time, in-person position.

Standard days and hours: Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Overtime may be required to meet urgent purchasing needs or deadlines.

Travel

• Level 3: Occasional local travel for supplier visits or training.
• Level 4: May require additional travel for supplier audits, strategic negotiations, or industry events.

Required Education and Experience

Education:

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

Experience:

• Level 3 – Buyer: 3–5 years of purchasing experience with negotiations and supplier management.
• Level 4 – Senior Buyer: 6+ years in procurement, including strategic sourcing and supplier development; proven leadership or mentorship experience.

Computer Skills:

• Proficiency in MRP/ERP systems (e.g., MS Business Central, Oracle, or equivalent) and MS Office (especially Excel).

Certifications:

• APICS, ISM (CPSM), or related certification a plus.

Benefits Offered

Our benefits package includes medical coverage, life and disability insurance, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance on the 1st of the month after 30 days of employment; personal time off and educational assistance; and a 401(k) with company match on the 1st of the month following 90 days of employment.