About

• Description

Summary/Objective

• The Buyer is responsible for the timely and accurate procurement of goods and materials to support production and operations within Aalberts Hydronic Flow Control. This role manages both domestic and international purchasing activities, ensuring optimal inventory levels, cost efficiency, and supplier performance. The Buyer partners closely with operations, quality, accounting, customer service, and engineering to maintain continuity of supply and drive continuous improvement in cost, quality, and delivery performance.

Essential Functions

• o Prepare, issue, and manage purchase orders in alignment with company policies and production requirements.
• o Monitor inventory levels, ensuring material availability while minimizing shortages and excess stock.
• o Validate and maintain data integrity within the ERP system, including lead times, bills of material, and vendor information.
• o Communicate regularly with suppliers to secure quotes, confirm pricing, delivery schedules, and quality expectations.
• o Track and manage shipments, addressing potential delays to ensure timely receipt of materials.
• o Identify and execute cost-saving opportunities through negotiation, shipment optimization, and supplier performance improvements.
• o Resolve discrepancies in inventory, receiving, and invoicing through collaboration with internal departments.
• o Support the release of new products by coordinating purchasing requirements with Sales, Marketing, and Engineering.
• o Maintain compliance with company procedures and trade requirements, ensuring complete and accurate procurement records.
• o Develop and publish purchasing reports, analyses, and recommendations to support management decisions.

Competencies

• o Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• o Effective communication and negotiation abilities
• o Attention to detail and accuracy
• o Strong organization and time management
• o Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office (Excel required)
• o Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Supervisory Responsibility

• This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Physical Demands

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands to handle or feel objects, and communicate clearly. May occasionally be required to lift light items (typically under 10 lbs).

Work Environment and Travel

• This position operates primarily in an office setting. Occasional travel may be required for supplier visits or trade meetings.

Required Education and Experience

• o Associate degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, or related field (Bachelor’s preferred)
• o Minimum 4 years of experience in purchasing or supply chain management
• o Experience working within an ERP system
• o Proven ability to manage supplier relationships and negotiate effectively

Preferred Education and Experience

• o Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field
• o Industry certification (APICS, ISM, or similar)
• o Familiarity with international procurement and logistics
• o Experience in manufacturing or industrial environments