Buyer | East Lansing, MI

Salary Range: $61,000 - $88,000 depending on experience

Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for strategic sourcing and building strong supplier relationships? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in East Lansing seeking experienced Buyers to drive results.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across East Lansing seeking Buyers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Manages the procurement of raw materials, components, and finished goods from suppliers.
• Negotiates pricing, terms, and delivery schedules with vendors to optimize cost and lead time.
• Develops and maintains strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure reliability and quality.
• Analyzes market trends and supplier performance to identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.
• Collaborates with engineering and production teams to ensure material availability and support new product development.
• Administers purchase orders, contracts, and other procurement documentation, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Resolves supplier issues related to quality, delivery, and invoicing in a timely manner.

Recommended Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in a direct purchasing role within a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to negotiate contracts and manage supplier relationships effectively.
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) for procurement functions.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and supply chain dynamics.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Plex)
• APICS CSCP or CPIM certification
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies
• Proven ability to negotiate complex contracts or long-term agreements
• Proficiency in a second language, particularly Spanish or Mandarin

Job Titles That Should Apply

Purchasing Agent,Procurement Specialist,Sourcing Manager,Supply Chain Analyst,Category Manager,Junior Buyer,Senior Buyer,Procurement Officer,Purchasing Manager,Merchandise Buyer

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.