Sr. Buyer

We are looking for an experienced Sr. Buyer to join a growing organization in the Madison, WI area in a contract-to-permanent role. This position supports material procurement for production operations, with a focus on maintaining supply continuity, improving purchasing performance, and partnering across planning, sales, inventory, and supplier teams. The ideal candidate brings strong buying experience, works well in a fast-paced environment, and can navigate the demands of a larger, increasingly international business.

Responsibilities:

• Issue purchase orders to suppliers promptly and align releases with established lead times to support uninterrupted production.

• Partner with scheduling and planning teams to translate build plans into purchasing activity, while keeping forecasts accurate within the business system.

• Review open orders and system-generated exceptions regularly, then take appropriate action to maintain supply flow and order accuracy.

• Coordinate closely with suppliers on order status, delivery timing, and resolution of material discrepancies or shortages.

• Work with material control and internal teams to support receiving, inventory movement, and material availability for manufacturing needs.

• Evaluate inventory conditions to address excess or obsolete stock and help define practical action plans to reduce risk and waste.

• Set and maintain planning parameters in the business system to balance inventory investment with operational demand.

• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and supplier commitments while supporting agreement execution and cost-saving initiatives.

• Expedite critical components, prepare supply status reporting, and contribute to new product introductions and continuous improvement efforts.

• Collaborate across functions, including sales and operations, to provide order updates, respond to changing demand, and support overall business objectives.

• 3-5 years of experience in a buyer or purchasing role.
• Background in procurement of materials, purchasing operations, and supplier coordination.
• Ability to work effectively within a larger company environment with complex supply chain demands.
• Strong understanding of purchase order management, inventory considerations, and production support activities.
• Experience negotiating supplier pricing, commercial terms, and delivery commitments.
• Manufacturing industry exposure is preferred, but candidates from other purchasing environments will also be considered.
• Familiarity with international sourcing considerations, including tariff exposure, is helpful but not required.
• Proven ability to take a hands-on approach, manage priorities, and communicate effectively with cross-functional teams and suppliers.