Buyer | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $58,000 - $85,000 depending on experience

Are you a forward-thinking professional with a passion for strategic sourcing and building strong supplier relationships? The Pivot Group is committed to fostering meaningful relationships in the manufacturing community. We partner with companies in Grand Rapids seeking skilled Buyers.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with manufacturing firms in Grand Rapids that are seeking skilled Buyers. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining high standards and are looking for professionals who can contribute effectively. By joining our network, you position yourself for opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate, and select suppliers based on quality, cost, and delivery performance.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts with suppliers to achieve cost savings and favorable conditions.
• Generate and manage purchase orders, ensuring timely delivery of materials to meet production schedules.
• Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with production planning to optimize material flow and minimize stockouts.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers, managing performance and resolving issues.
• Conduct market research to identify new products, suppliers, and industry trends to inform purchasing strategies.
• Resolve discrepancies with suppliers regarding invoices, quality issues, or delivery schedules.

Recommended Qualifications

• 3-5+ years of direct purchasing or procurement experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Proven ability to negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with suppliers effectively.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Dynamics) for purchasing functions.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and production scheduling.
• Experience in supplier sourcing, evaluation, and relationship management.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with advanced ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics)
• Knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles or Six Sigma methodologies
• Certification in Supply Chain Management (e.g., CPSM, CSCP)
• Proficiency in a second language relevant to international suppliers

Job Titles That Should Apply

Buyer, Purchasing Agent, Procurement Specialist, Sourcing Specialist, Supply Chain Buyer, Junior Buyer, Senior Buyer, Procurement Officer

Why Pivot Group

The Pivot Group 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.

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. The Pivot Group 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.