Buyer | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $53,000 - $80,000 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 Grand Rapids 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 are partnering with organizations in Grand Rapids that are seeking Buyers. These companies are committed to building strong teams and are looking for professionals who can lead initiatives effectively. By connecting with The Pivot Group Network, you position yourself for roles that match your background and aspirations.

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.
• Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with production to ensure timely material availability.
• Identify and implement cost reduction opportunities without compromising quality or supply chain integrity.
• Manage supplier relationships, including performance reviews and issue resolution.
• Analyze market trends and commodity prices to inform purchasing strategies.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, purchasing procedures, and relevant regulations.

Recommended Qualifications

• 3+ years experience as a Buyer in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to negotiate contracts and manage supplier relationships.
• Strong understanding of supply chain principles and inventory management.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) for procurement processes.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Plex) for procurement and inventory management.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• APICS CSCP or CPIM certification.
• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing principles and their application to supply chain.
• Proven track record of successful negotiation with international suppliers.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Purchasing Agent,Procurement Specialist,Sourcing Manager,Supply Chain Analyst,Junior Buyer,Senior Buyer,Category Manager,Materials Manager,Contract Negotiator,Supplier Relationship 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.