Buying Associate – Entry Level Procurement

About the role

The Buying Associate provides entry‑level support for the procurement of lower‑cost manufacturing materials and services. Working under close supervision, the associate helps ensure material quality, cost efficiency, and timely delivery for the production floor.

Key responsibilities

• Review demand requirements and verify requisition completeness and accuracy.
• Obtain quotes, evaluate bids, and recommend award decisions.
• Prepare and administer purchase orders to meet quality, cost, and delivery targets.
• Analyze material availability, manage inventory investment, and maintain data integrity in the Item Master file.
• Communicate with suppliers regarding availability, pricing, shipping, and issue resolution.
• Expedite deliveries and follow up to meet schedule requirements.
• Assist in supplier surveys, site audits, and sourcing analyses.
• Support the Buyer or Team Leader in supplier performance reviews and recommend changes or disqualifications.
• Resolve receipt and invoice discrepancies.

Required profile

• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and the materials being purchased.
• Knowledge of purchasing practices, procedures, and basic computer applications.
• Strong basic math, data‑entry, and 10‑key skills.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks with attention to detail while meeting tight deadlines.
• Capability to evaluate, prioritize, and solve problems independently.

Required skills

• Microsoft Office (especially Excel)
• Data entry
• 10‑key calculator proficiency