Buyer

At KMT Waterjet, a Shape Technologies Group (SHAPE) company, we’re devoted to a single goal: delivering innovative manufacturing process solutions that propel our customers to success. SHAPE is a strategic ecosystem of companies, including Advanced Pressure Systems (APS), Flow International, Shape Process Automation, KMT Waterjet, H20 Jet, Aqua Dyne, Aquarese, Pro Jet System, and TOPS. Collectively, we provide an extensive portfolio of manufacturing process solutions to customers worldwide. 

Spanning 100 countries and a broad array of industries, SHAPE is expanding its reach through a growing number of direct and indirect channels. By partnering with our customers, we become integral to the successful design and manufacture of their next-generation products. We continually scour the globe for new, industry-leading technologies to add to our differentiated portfolio of offerings and grow our customer base. Our vision is to become the preeminent advanced process-solutions partner for the highly engineered products of tomorrow. 

What We Offer. 

In addition to training and career advancement opportunities, we offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, life insurance, paid disability insurance, education reimbursement, and more.

SUMMARY  

KMT Waterjet, Inc., a Shape Technologies Group Company, is seeking a Buyer/Planner to join our Purchasing team. In this role, you will play a crucial role in forecasting future demand, monitoring market fluctuations, and negotiating with vendors to ensure high-quality purchases at competitive costs while effectively managing inventory levels. You will report to the Purchasing Supervisor and collaborate closely with other departments to maintain seamless operations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following: 

• Review action messages daily and take appropriate action to fulfill procurement requirements.
• Uphold the integrity of the purchasing system and adhere to established procedures.
• Collaborate with vendors to obtain product/service information, including pricing, availability, and delivery schedules.
• Conduct market analysis to assess material availability, pricing, delivery conditions, and trends for informed decision-making.
• Prepare purchase orders and bid requests, and evaluate bid proposals to negotiate contracts within budgetary constraints.
• Oversee supplier certification and documentation processes.
• Lead all sourcing activities for assigned commodities and negotiate pricing arrangements with selected suppliers.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned suppliers, addressing purchasing and quality-related issues.
• Coordinate with inspection, quality control personnel, and vendors to address defective or unacceptable goods or services and implement corrective actions.
• Develop and maintain supplier scorecards, identifying areas for improvement and implementing action plans.
• Proactively identify opportunities for cost reduction and drive their implementation.
• Adjust assigned inventory levels in response to market dynamics and demand fluctuations.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Regular and predictable attendance is an essential function of this position.  

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:  

• Proficient understanding of procurement principles, practices, and procedures.
• Understanding of market dynamics, pricing trends, and supply chain management concepts.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with vendors and internal stakeholders.
• Capacity to adapt to changing priorities and environments in a fast-paced, dynamic organization.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE:  

• Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from a four-year college or university.
• 3-5 years of relevant purchasing experience.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• CPM or CPIM designation is desired, though not mandatory.
• Experience with QAD/MfgPro software is preferred.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit or stand for an 8+ hour shift. Lift, carry, and move 50+ pounds. Push, pull, reach, bend, and twist your body.  

Produces ultra-high pressure waterjet and robotic manufacturing systems