How you will make an Impact (Job Summary)

SPX is a diverse team of unique individuals who all make an impact. As a Buyer / Purchasing Specialist, you will be responsible for optimizing the use of company assets in the acquisition of assigned goods and services. The Buyer / Purchasing Specialist will purchase the highest quality merchandise at the lowest possible price and in correct amounts at the best acceptable quality and service.

What you can expect in this role (Job Responsibilities)

1. Procurement Management:
   • Negotiate and administer purchase contracts, solicit bid proposals and review requisitions for goods and services from external suppliers.
   • Analyze price proposals, financial reports, and other data and information to determine reasonable prices.

2. Supplier Evaluation and Management:
   • Research and evaluate suppliers based on price, quality, selection, service, support, availability, reliability, production and distribution capabilities, and the supplier performance and history.
   • Manage supplier deliveries to ensure that goods and services on schedule and complete, and in the event of problems, determine plans to rectify the shortage or quality issues.
   • Evaluate and manage supplier contract performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and to determine need for changes.

3. Inventory Management:
   • Maintain, review and analyze ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) results of items purchased, costs, delivery, product performance, and inventories to establish desirable inventory levels.

4. Market Analysis and Research:
   • Review catalogs, industry periodicals, directories, trade journals, and Internet sites, and consult with other department personnel to locate necessary goods and services.
   • Monitor changes affecting supply and demand, tracking market conditions, price trends, or futures markets.

What we are looking for (Experience, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education)

We each bring something to the table, and we are looking for someone who has:

Required Experience

• Five years of experience with a college degree or seven years of experience in Procurement and Material Management required.
• Operational knowledge of ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems (SAP, Deltek, IFS or other).
• Demonstrated and effective negotiations skills and methodologies.
• Significant skills and experience in all Microsoft products particularly Word and Excel.
• Strong communication, interpersonal and business writing skills.
• Well versed in Six Sigma or Lean concepts to solve problems.
• Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish work.
• Must be able to read technical drawings and specifications and a working technical knowledge of customized and commercial materials and services.
• Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others and maintaining them over time.
• Managing resources and overseeing the spending of money.
• Managing complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
• Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership techniques, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
• Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.

Preferred Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Previous experience in procurement or supply chain management, preferably in a similar industry or with similar products/services.
• Experience negotiating contracts and agreements with suppliers.
• Familiarity with sourcing strategies and supplier relationship management.
• Understanding of procurement best practices and principles.
• Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations related to procurement, such as import/export laws, contract law, etc.
• Familiarity with market trends and pricing in the industry.
• Strong analytical skills to evaluate suppliers and make informed decisions.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work well in a team and collaborate with other departments.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Proficiency in using procurement software and tools.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and priorities.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to think critically.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in business administration.
• Institute of Supply Management Certification or equivalent preferred.

Travel & Working Environment

• 8AM - 5PM, Monday - Friday in plant, hybrid work available.
• Some Travel may be required - new vendor screening / sites surveys / etc.
• Office Environment - ability to use computers and office equipment, light lifting and other physical requirements necessary to perform essential job functions.