Sr. Buyer

About Optimus Technologies 

Optimus Technologies is a clean energy technology company based in Pittsburgh, PA. Optimus manufactures the Vector System, an advanced fuel system technology that enables diesel engines to operate on 100% biodiesel. The Vector System is designed for medium and heavy-duty fleet applications, where emissions reductions are challenging or impossible to achieve in a cost-effective manner through other means. The Vector System integrates into existing operations to facilitate a seamless transition to low-carbon fuels. 

Optimus’ Vector System is in use with leading municipal and private fleets throughout the country enabling them to achieve near-zero carbon emissions while reducing their fuel and fleet operating costs. 

Find out more at optimustec.com, on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Job Description 

Optimus seeks a dynamic, organized Sr. Buyer to help us to reach our bold growth goals assisting fleets in reducing their carbon emissions and achieving environmental sustainability goals. This is a full-time, salaried position ($76,800-$82,400) with benefits, based in Pittsburgh, PA with travel requirements of up to 25%. Initially this position will include product & component assembly along with managing the vendor selection process of the Optimus Vector fuel system.

The Sr. Buyer will be the company’s subject matter expert on all things related to purchasing components/parts for the Vector fuel system technology production. This includes a knowledge of vendors for component parts and assemblies. It will also require a comprehensive understanding of electrical, mechanical, and software systems and how they are sourced. 

The position will require collaboration with electrical and mechanical engineers and third-party manufacturers. The Sr. Buyer must have an efficiency-first mindset and have a strong grasp on industry trends, inventory lead time, production scheduling, and quality control. 

Optimus is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. People of color, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, veterans and members of other historically disenfranchised groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Consistent with legal requirements, we also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories.

Responsibilities 
 

• Evaluates bids, selects and recommends suppliers and negotiates price, delivery, quality and service. 

• Follows up on all awards until completion of order. 

• Negotiates and settles with suppliers regarding damage claims, rejections, return of materials, over-shipments, cancellations and engineering changes. 

• Conducts supplier site visits and rates them as to production capability, performance and delivery. 

• Responsible for complying with corporate policies, procedures and underlying Federal, state and/or local regulations concerning the purchase or shipment of goods, materials, or services. 

• Works with Production Team and Procurement Specialist(s) to support company demand by procuring goods, materials, equipment, and other relevant needs 

• Promptly addresses and resolves procurement issues to minimize delays in production 

• Flow information to all relevant parties to ensure the processing of purchase orders and deliveries in a timeframe that supports the company's success 

• Support cost, on-time delivery, quality, and vendor performance initiatives 

• Assist with compiling status and performance reports to submit them to management and relevant departments in a timely manner 

• Review, monitor, and execute any updates to vendor/internal communications in the ERP system, including purchase order changes and transactions 

Qualifications & Experience 

• Minimum 4+ years buyer/purchasing/procurement role, preferably in a manufacturing setting 

• Bachelor Degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering or related field 

• Problem solving skills in situations in which prior experience with similar problems has shown which choice is most appropriate, selecting from known alternatives 

• Experience with ERP and/or MRP systems preferred 

• Proficient in Excel and Microsoft Office programs 

• Build and maintain effective and productive relationships with key stakeholders, suppliers and auditors 

• Experience with automotive components, sub-assemblies, assemblies, and kits 

• The willingness and experience to work with cross-functional teams 

• Strong ability to adapt to changing sets of priorities and shift between multiple simultaneous tasks 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with experience in reporting on key production metrics 

Other Job Requirements 

• A passion for alternative energy solutions and commitment to the importance of the climate crisis 

• Exposure to outdoor, warehouse, and shop working conditions 

• Ability to work around a variety of particulates, lubricants, and chemicals 

• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record 

• Domestic and potential international travel, as required (up to 25%)