Buyer

Job Purpose:
The Buyer position is a key role within our Supply Chain group. Requiring excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to balance short term priorities. Key objectives will be execution of the procurement strategies to fulfill quality and volume requirements for purchased products/components at the lowest cost while managing inventory targets and achieving the targeted customer service levels.
Key Accountabilities:

• Responsible for the procurement of a variety of materials and services to effectively support Lufkin’s production requirements and support the development of appropriate stocking strategies.
• Timely and properly execute the MRP exception messages (cancel, defer, place new orders, etc ...) to ensure availability of inventory for material requirements and in support of any inventory reduction strategies.
• Develop RFI, RFQ and RFP packages for the purchase of materials and or services.
• Evaluate vendor quotations and proposals to ensure Lufkin achieves optimal quality, lead time, delivery, and cost.
• Monitor purchase price variance proactively, taking steps to mitigate any product inflation.
• Ability to evaluate purchase lot sizing to optimize inventory levels while minimizing stock outs and excess inventory.
• Work within cross functional teams to identify critical materials and/or services, developing, implementing, and driving sustainable risk mitigation strategies.
• Support category strategy execution by identifying opportunities for alternative sources, cost reduction initiatives and risk mitigation efforts.
• Support new product development initiatives.
• Demonstrate a basic knowledge of commodities being purchased.
• Display thorough knowledge of MRP planning and inventory management principles.
• Apply standard processes while meeting business requirements in accordance with the Procurement policies and procedures with minimal supervision.
• Regardless of other duties, the Buyer II has a responsibility to follow LUFKIN production, safety, and quality procedures.

Required Education & Preferred Certifications
 

• Bachelor’s Degree
• At least 3 years of experience in purchasing /procurement is required.
• Experience in one or more of the following categories desirable – Metals, Machining, MRO, Indirect Services.

Certificates & Licenses

• APICS or ISM certifications highly desirable
• Lean/Six Sigma - Preferred

Required Knowledge / Skills

• Familiar with industry related commodities
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships with internal customers across all levels of the organization, as well as vendors.
• Strong analytical, problem solving and time management skills.
• Able to work in a team and take direction from management or senior level peers.
• Proficient in Microsoft applications including, but not limited to, Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint
• Experience with data analytical tools like Power BI, Tableau, Advanced Excel
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems (JDE Preferred)