Buyer Intern (Part-Time) - Indiana

RESPONSIBILITES / DUTIES: Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the job.  The essential functions of the position include, but are not limited to the following:

Inventory / Production Purchasing Support

• Assist in creating and issuing purchase orders (POs) to raw material vendors.
• Support pricing confirmation processes and help investigate discrepancies.
• Monitor raw material inventory levels (e.g., resin, EPS, colorants, packaging, pentane) to help ensure timely replenishment.
• Perform visual checks of production supplies (e.g., tape, glue, labels) and report shortages.
• Collaborate with receiving and production teams to coordinate material delivery timing.
• Assist with tracking delivery dates and adjusting orders based on production needs.
• Help investigate and resolve discrepancies in received quantities or pricing with vendors and internal teams.

Maintenance (MRO) Purchasing Support

• Assist with issuing purchase orders to Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) vendors.
• Support pricing verification and discrepancy resolution.
• Work with maintenance and receiving teams to coordinate material deliveries.
• Track open orders and help follow up on delivery timelines.
• Assist with monthly service tracking and ensure proper receipt of completed work.
• Support resolution of discrepancies related to MRO purchases.

General Purchasing Support

• Maintain purchasing records, documentation, and order tracking files. (aligned with full buyer role responsibilities)
• Assist with vendor communication and follow-up on orders and deliveries.
• Help ensure timely receipt of materials and update expected delivery (promise) dates.
• Provide administrative support to the Purchasing team as needed.
• Perform other related duties or special projects as assigned.

Learning Objectives

• Gain experience with purchasing systems, purchase order lifecycle, and vendor management
• Develop understanding of inventory control and supply chain coordination
• Build cross-functional communication skills with production, maintenance, and receiving teams
• Learn to identify and resolve purchasing discrepancies and supply issues

This internship is designed to provide practical experience in purchasing and supply chain operations. Responsibilities may evolve based on business needs and intern development.

EDUCATION/SPECIAL SKILLS/EXPERIENCE/TRAINING:

• Education/Work Experience: Currently pursuing a degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Logistics, or a related field
• Language Ability: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret purchase orders, vendor communications, and internal documents. Strong written and verbal communication skills for interacting with vendors and internal departments. Ability to clearly document and report discrepancies or issues
• Math Ability: Basic arithmetic skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division). Ability to compare pricing, quantities, and invoice details accurately. Basic understanding of inventory calculations and unit measures
• Reasoning Ability: Ability to identify discrepancies in pricing, quantities, or delivery timelines and assist in resolving them. Strong attention to detail and ability to follow processes and procedures . Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple assignments in a fast-paced environment. Willingness to learn and apply problem-solving skills in real-world purchasing scenarios.
• Computer Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel for tracking and data entry). Ability to learn and use purchasing or ERP/MRP systems (e.g., IQMS or similar systems used by the company). Basic data entry and record-keeping skills.
• Travel Requirements: No travel required
• Other (including certifications and licenses): Strong organizational and time management skills. Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams (production, maintenance, receiving). No certifications required; relevant coursework or internship experience is a plus. 

SCHEDULE REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS:

• 20-25 Hours Per Week
• Paid Internship
• Monday – Friday or As Needed. Work Environment:  Manufacturing environment and office setting.
• Physical Demands: Sitting or standing for extended periods of time up to 8-hours.  Must be able to lift 20 to 40 pounds.  Reading computer screen or other electronic devices.  Use of various office hand and electrical tools or equipment: