Buyer | Portage, MI

Salary Range: $54,000 - $81,000 depending on experience

Are you a forward-thinking 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 in the manufacturing community. We partner with companies in Portage seeking skilled Buyers.

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 are collaborating with multiple companies in Portage seeking experienced Buyers. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules with suppliers to optimize cost and quality.
• Source and evaluate new suppliers to expand the vendor base and mitigate supply chain risks.
• Collaborate with engineering and production teams to define material specifications and requirements.
• Manage purchase orders, ensuring timely placement, delivery, and resolution of discrepancies.
• Monitor inventory levels and forecasts to prevent stockouts and minimize carrying costs.
• Analyze market trends and supplier performance to identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.

Recommended Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in a procurement or buying role within a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to negotiate contracts and manage supplier relationships effectively.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) for purchasing and inventory management.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and their impact on material requirements.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with MRP/ERP systems, particularly in a manufacturing setting
• APICS certification (e.g., CPIM, CSCP)
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma principles
• Proven ability to negotiate complex contracts and build strong supplier relationships

Job Titles That Should Apply

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

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.