Lumber Buyer
3 months ago
POSITION PURPOSE:
As a Lumber Buyer, you will play a crucial role in sourcing and procuring green lumber, which is essential for our manufacturing processes. This position requires a deep understanding of lumber quality, market dynamics, and strong supplier relationships. Our vision is to redefine lumber procurement with sustainable practices and reliable partnerships with certified suppliers. We strive to set industry standards for ethical sourcing, ensuring every timber meets our rigorous environmental criteria. Through optimized supply chains and a focus on quality, we aim to lead the way in sustainable cabinetry manufacturing.
IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to excel at the essential functions assigned. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and ability required.
Experience
* A Minimum of 3-5 years of manufacturing experience; lumber industry preferred.
* A minimum of 3-5 years' experience utilizing computer-based material management, with demonstrated proficiency in MRP systems.
Skills
* Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook.
* Extensive knowledge of lumber and building material products, terminology, grades, species, treatments, and units of measure
* Ability to calculate mathematical quantities such as proportions, weighted averages, percentages, volume, density, area, $/MBF, $/MSF
* Proven ability to apply analytical and problem-solving skills effectively.
* Ability to plan and organize effectively, with strong time management skills and demonstrated proficiency in analytical problem-solving.
* Proven track record of effective negotiations resulting in mutually beneficial agreements and favorable outcomes.
* Active Membership in Kentucky Forest Industry Association (KFIA) and National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA) required. (Memberships can be obtained post-employment).
Education
* Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field (Preferred).
* A minimum of 3-5 years' experience in lumber purchasing or related fields may be considered in lieu of formal education. This experience should showcase a solid understanding of the lumber industry, including market dynamics and supplier relations.
* NHLA Lumber Grading Certification (Preferred).
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Identify Suppliers:
* Identify and evaluate potential suppliers of green lumber based on thorough research and criteria such as reliability, lumber quality, pricing competitiveness, and capacity to meet production requirements.
* Conduct ongoing supplier assessments to ensure alignment with company standards and operational needs.
* Collaborate with suppliers to negotiate contracts and agreements that optimize cost, quality, and delivery schedules, while maintaining strong relationships and addressing any issues or concerns to ensure continuity of supply and operational efficiency.
Negotiation:
* Negotiate favorable terms, pricing, and contracts with potential suppliers of green lumber based on thorough research and evaluation.
* Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to facilitate ongoing negotiations and ensure competitive rates and favorable conditions.
* Analyze market trends, supplier performance, and internal requirements to inform negotiation strategies and align procurement activities with organizational goals.
Contract Management:
* Draft and manage contracts with suppliers to formalize agreements on pricing, delivery schedules, quality standards, and other relevant terms essential to the procurement process.
* Ensure contractual terms align with organizational goals and compliance requirements while fostering mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers.
Quality Assurance:
* Establish and maintain rigorous quality assurance standards for incoming lumber shipments by inspecting samples and verifying compliance with industry standards and company specifications.
* Address any quality issues promptly by implementing corrective actions and communicating expectations to suppliers.
* Collaborate closely with suppliers to resolve quality issues and implement measures for continuous improvement in the quality of lumber received.
* Monitor and evaluate supplier performance against quality metrics, providing feedback and support as needed to maintain high standards of product quality.
Inventory Management:
* Monitor and manage green lumber inventory levels to maintain adequate supply for production needs, while minimizing excess stock and associated storage costs.
* Develop inventory replenishment strategies, collaborating with production planners to forecast demand and optimize inventory levels effectively.
* Implement proactive measures to ensure inventory accuracy and timely replenishment, supporting efficient production operations and cost-effective inventory management.
Supplier Relationship Management:
* Cultivate strong, collaborative relationships with key suppliers through regular communication, performance feedback, and proactive issue resolution.
* Work strategically with suppliers to enhance efficiency, reliability, and overall supply chain performance, fostering continuous improvement initiatives.
Market & Industry Knowledge:
* Stay informed about market trends, lumber pricing fluctuations, supply availability, and regulatory changes affecting procurement decisions.
* Conduct thorough market research and analysis to anticipate shifts in supply and demand dynamics, adapting procurement strategies proactively.
Cost Management & Budgeting:
* Monitor and control costs related to lumber procurement, including transportation, storage, and supplier pricing, to optimize expenditure.
* Develop and manage budgets for lumber procurement activities, ensuring alignment with overall financial goals and objectives while maintaining cost efficiency.
Compliance & Sustainability:
* Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, sustainability standards, and corporate policies in lumber sourcing and procurement.
* Promote sustainable practices within the supply chain by collaborating with suppliers to source responsibly harvested lumber and reduce environmental impact.
Communication & Collaboration:
* Collaborate effectively with internal stakeholders such as production managers, logistics teams, and finance departments to align lumber procurement activities with production schedules and overarching business goals.
* Provide timely and accurate updates on procurement activities, inventory levels, and market conditions to facilitate informed decision-making across the organization.
* Foster cross-functional communication and coordination to optimize lumber procurement processes and enhance overall operational efficiency.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
* This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.
SCOPE & EXPECATIONS:
Travel Requirements:
* Out-of-town travel is required, up to 25%.
Physical Demands:
* The physical demands of a lumber buyer position may include standing, walking, lifting and carrying materials, manual handling of paperwork and computer work, driving, maintaining physical stamina during busy periods, and adhering to safety protocols.
Working Environment:
* Outdoor: the lumber buyer may need to work in various weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, or snow when visiting lumber yards or supplier sites.
* Indoor: Office setting
Recruitment:
* The recruitment process may consist of any combination of phone, video and in-person interviews.
* Offers may be contingent upon successful completion of Background Check, Drug Screen, Physical Examination and/or potential Motor Vehicle Check.
BENEFITS PACKAGE INCLUDES:
* Competitive Compensation
* Health Care Benefits
* Paid Holidays
* Paid Vacation Days
* Paid Sick Days
* 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan & Profit Sharing
* Tuition Assistance
* Relocation Assistance when available
Please note that this job description is not exhaustive of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required of the incumbent. The employer reserves the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time, based on business needs. This job description does not constitute a contract of employment and the position may be changed or eliminated at the discretion of the employer.
Company DescriptionAmerican Woodmark is a leading kitchen and bath cabinet manufacturer, servicing the remodel and new construction markets. With over 10,000 employees, 17 manufacturing facilities, and seven primary service centers located throughout the United States. Offering more than 15 brands and hundreds of cabinet styles, our commitment to quality and caring for our customers and employees never wavers.We celebrate our passionate and dedicated workforce. They are our inspiration and strength, and the reason for our success and leadership in the industry. With their help, we pledge to bring the best quality and value to our customers, the best workplace and opportunities to our people, the best products and customer service to home centers, builders and distributors and the best investment for our shareholders. We are excited and humbled by the challenge of leadership. Our people are determined to continue to set the standard for our industry, promote American quality, and enhance our homes and lives with American Woodmark products.
Full benefits package
Salary is D.O.ECompany DescriptionAmerican Woodmark is a leading kitchen and bath cabinet manufacturer, servicing the remodel and new construction markets. With over 10,000 employees, 17 manufacturing facilities, and seven primary service centers located throughout the United States. Offering more than 15 brands and hundreds of cabinet styles, our commitment to quality and caring for our customers and employees never wavers. \r
We celebrate our passionate and dedicated workforce. They are our inspiration and strength, and the reason for our success and leadership in the industry. With their help, we pledge to bring the best quality and value to our customers, the best workplace and opportunities to our people, the best products and customer service to home centers, builders and distributors and the best investment for our shareholders. We are excited and humbled by the challenge of leadership. Our people are determined to continue to set the standard for our industry, promote American quality, and enhance our homes and lives with American Woodmark products.\r
Full benefits package\r
Salary is D.O.E
