Buyer / Procurement Specialist Manufacturing (Aurora)

Salary Range: $60,000 - 80,000/annually (Exempt Position)Who We ArePelsue is an industry leader in manufacturing worker safety products and vehicles for the telephone, utility, and satellite communications industries. We recently moved to a new facility in Aurora, CO. Multiple production areas in the factory include a metal fabrication shop, trailer and van manufacturing flow lines, specialty vehicle build stations, safety product lines, and an in-house tent shop.Who You AreA Buyer at Pelsue is a strategic thinker, detail-oriented professional, and strong negotiator who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You understand the delicate balance of supply and demand, ensuring materials are available when needed without excess inventory. In this role, you collaborate closely with Supply Chain leadership (Managers and Senior Managers) and other cross-functional teamssuch as Logistics, Planning, Production, and Financetomaintainstrong supplier relationships, stable lead times, and cost efficiency.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesLevel3 BuyerCommodity Procurement & Cost OptimizationManage procurement of assigned commodities, ensuring a stable supply while controlling costs and quality.Negotiate pricing, delivery terms, and service level agreements with suppliers.Proactivelyidentifyopportunities for cost savings or process improvements.Supplier Management & PerformanceBuild andmaintainrelationships with key suppliers; monitor performance for on-time delivery, quality, and cost.Work with the Supply Chain Manager and cross-functional teams to resolve supplier issues or address risks (e.g., lead-time variability, quality concerns).Conduct market research to findoptimalsuppliers, evaluating factors such as capacity, reliability, and total landed cost.Inventory & Scheduling AlignmentCollaborate with production planners and material handlers to streamline material flow.Ensure forecasts and purchase orders are aligned to prevent excess inventory or stock-outs.Use data-driven analysis (e.g., usage rates, lead times) to recommend safety stock levels.Mentorship & Team SupportTrain and support Junior Buyers on day-to-day purchasing activities and best practices.Contribute to cross-functional projects with Planning, Logistics, and Operations to improve the supply chain process.Level4 Senior BuyerStrategic Procurement LeadershipDevelop and execute sourcing strategies for critical or high-value materials in alignment with the Senior Supply Chain Managers broader vision.Lead complex contract negotiations, focusing on long-term supplier partnerships, cost reduction, and supplier performance.Evaluate and mitigate supply chain risks byestablishingcontingency plans, dual sourcing, or alternative suppliers.Supplier Partnership & AuditsEstablish robust relationships with strategic suppliers, fostering continuous improvement in quality, service, and cost.Conduct supplier audits or performance reviews, coordinating corrective actions where necessary.Champion supplier development programs andparticipatein cross-functional supplier assessments.Process Improvement & Cross-Functional CollaborationCollaborate with the Senior Supply Chain Manager, Logistics, and Planning teams to alignpurchasingstrategies with production schedules and inventory targets.Drive initiatives to improve procurement processes (e.g., e-sourcing, advanced analytics, supplier scorecards).Provide mentorship and training to Buyers and Junior Buyers, sharing best practices and industry knowledge.CompetenciesNegotiation & Communication: Skilled at negotiating terms, pricing, and contracts whilemaintainingprofessional supplier relationships.Analytical & Detail-Oriented: Ability to interpret data from ERP/MRP systems,identifytrends, and make informed procurement decisions.Collaboration: Works closely with Supply Chain, Planning, Logistics, and other teams to achieve companyobjectives.Strategic Thinking(Level 3):Identifieslong-term procurement opportunities, develops robust sourcing strategies, and mitigates risks.Core Values: UpholdsTrustin supplier relationships,exhibitsOwnershipin procurement decisions,demonstratesDisciplineinfinancial responsibility, and aligns with Pelsues overall supply chainobjectives.Leadership ResponsibilitiesLevel3: Mentors and coaches Junior Buyers, providing support in daily procurement tasks.Level4: Provides strategic direction and mentorship to all levels of Buyers; may collaborate with or report directly to the Senior Supply Chain Manager on high-level procurement initiatives.Work EnvironmentPrimarily in an office environment with regular engagement on the shop floor and warehouse areas to address material or quality issues.Some exposure to production noise and movement of equipment during supplier visits or floor inspections.Physical DemandsPrimarily sedentary with extensive use of a computer.Occasional standing, walking, or lifting items up to 25 lbs. when handling samples or inventory checks.Position Type/Expected Hours of WorkFull-time, in-person position.Standard days and hours: Monday throughFriday, 6:30 a.m. to3:00 p.m.Overtime may berequiredto meet urgent purchasing needs or deadlines.TravelLevel3: Occasional local travel for supplier visits or training.Level4: May requireadditionaltravel for supplier audits, strategic negotiations, or industry events.Required Education and ExperienceEducation:Bachelors degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience).Experience:Level3 Buyer:35years ofpurchasingexperience with negotiations and supplier management.Level4 Senior Buyer:6+ years in procurement, including strategic sourcing and supplier development; proven leadership or mentorship experience.Computer Skills:Proficiencyin MRP/ERP systems (e.g.,MS Business Central, Oracle, or equivalent) and MS Office (especially Excel).Certifications:APICS, ISM (CPSM), or related certificationa plus.Benefits OfferedOur benefits package includes medical coverage, life and disability insurance, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance on the 1st of the month after 30 days of employment; personal time off and educational assistance; and a 401(k) with company match on the 1st of the month following 90 days of employment.