Buyer | Traverse City, MI

Salary Range: $55,000 - $82,000 depending on experience

Are you a seasoned professional with a passion for strategic sourcing and building strong supplier relationships? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Traverse City seeking Buyers to lead and enhance their operations.

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 collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Traverse City region seeking Buyers. These employers partner with us because they want real insight into candidates—not just resumes. By joining our network, you gain access to roles worth considering.

Key Responsibilities

• Source and evaluate suppliers for raw materials, components, and MRO items.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules with vendors to optimize cost and lead time.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure continuity of supply and foster innovation.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to define material specifications and ensure alignment with manufacturing needs.
• Manage purchase orders, track shipments, and resolve any discrepancies or quality issues with suppliers.
• Analyze market trends and supplier performance to identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.
• Implement and maintain purchasing policies and procedures to ensure compliance and efficiency.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience as a Buyer in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven ability to negotiate contracts and manage supplier relationships.
• Strong understanding of ERP systems, particularly for purchasing modules.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and quality control standards.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze market trends and make data-driven purchasing decisions.

Bonus Qualifications

• APICS certification (e.g., CPIM, CSCP)
• Experience with a specific ERP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Plex)
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles
• Proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
• Experience in a high-mix, low-volume manufacturing environment

Job Titles That Should Apply

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

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.