**Summary of Position:
**
The Materials Buyer has the primary responsibility of sourcing, procuring and managing materials to ensure material availability to support the production schedule. Other responsibilities include managing inventory levels, supporting material/product level revisions, interacting/coordinating with suppliers on a variety of topics, and supporting other business functions as required. Fast-paced work environment.
**Essential Functions:
**
Place purchase orders with suppliers for the procurement of production material as required by forecast and the production schedule.
Verify raw materials meet specified quality standards and contractual requirements
Monitor status of open purchase orders to ensure on-time delivery of all materials, including timely resolution, communication, and mitigation of future potential problems.
Identify cost saving opportunities and monitor procurement costs to adhere to budgets
Expedite or defer orders as required based on schedule/inventory changes determine and establish optimal inventory levels based on forecast, demand variation, and material lead times.
Coordinate material flows throughout product/BOM changes, obsolescence, and the introduction of new suppliers and/or materials due to new product development.
Manage the inter-company flow of materials between warehouse locations.
Manage and resolve issues regarding PO to invoice discrepancies, returns and quality problems with suppliers.
Provide back-up support for supply chain functions including shipping, receiving, material handling and other duties as assigned.
Setup & maintain material master system planning parameters (MOQ, lead time, safety stocks).
Collaborate with internal customers and provide a high level of customer service, including recommending solutions, resources, and alternative supply options.
Ensure and promote compliance to Company and Procurement policies and procedures.
Adhere to the TOMZ Quality Management System.
Travel to MN location may be required
Perform other duties as assigned.
**Qualifications:
**
Applied knowledge of forecasting, MRP, transportation, supply chain, inventory management and warehousing disciplines.
Proficient with MS Office suite – advanced skills with MS Excel.
Strong sense of urgency & attention to detail.
Ability to self-direct and take constructive action in ambiguous situations.
**Preferred Skills:
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Analytical with a methodical approach to problem solving.
Experience establishing and employing demand-pull material planning methods.
Able to influence others & manage conflict.
Strong negotiation skills
Excellent organization, communication, and follow-up skills.
Extremely high standards of excellence.
**Education:
**
BS/BA in Supply Chain, Business or equivalent combination of education and buyer experience.
3-5 years of experience in a Buyer/Planner/Material Scheduler role working for a direct manufacturer (required).
**Physical Requirements:
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Ability to bend, stoop, squat, kneel, and lift up to 30 pounds. Team lift or mechanical assistance required for objects over 30 pounds.
Ability to sit or stand for prolonged periods.
Proficient use of a keyboard and mouse, requiring manual dexterity and coordination.
Ability to focus on a computer screen and other visual tasks for prolonged periods, with appropriate vision
correction if needed.
You should be proficient in: