Buyer

FEMA Corporation is seeking a highly motivated Buyer to join the Purchasing Department. This position is responsible for executing sourcing strategies, managing and developing supplier relationships, negotiating pricing, and supporting organizational initiatives that drive cost savings and supplier performance.

This is a full-time, overtime exempt position and will report to the Purchasing Manager. Normal work hours are Monday–Friday, 8 am – 5 pm. Occasional nights or weekends may be required based on business needs. Travel expectations are up to 25% domestically and internationally; a valid driver’s license is required (subject to MVR check).

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of commodity and sourcing strategies aligned with manufacturing goals, production schedules, and business objectives.
• Manage and develop supplier relationships, including supplier selection, performance reviews, contract negotiations, issue resolution, and ongoing vendor engagement.
• Monitor market trends, raw material pricing, and supply risks to inform sourcing decisions and mitigate supply chain disruptions.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with engineering, production, and quality teams to ensure supplier capabilities meet technical, operational, and quality requirements.
• Support new product development and new product introductions by aligning sourcing strategies with design requirements and production timelines.
• Coordinate purchasing activities and support cost estimating for project quotes, sourcing analyses, and business cases.
• Drive cost reduction and value creation initiatives through value engineering/VAVE, competitive bidding, supplier consolidation, and continuous improvement efforts.
• Lead supplier negotiation and contract management processes to ensure favorable commercial and operational outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Prepare and present reports on commodity performance, cost savings, supplier performance, and risk mitigation.
• Apply a technical understanding of components, critical dimensions, and assembly interactions to support sourcing and supplier decisions.
• Promote and drive continuous improvement in sourcing processes, supplier performance, and overall supply chain effectiveness.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or related field.
• 4+ years of purchasing experience (manufacturing preferred) 1+ years project management responsibilities.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, presentation, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and familiarity with AIAG, APQP, and PPAP.
• Technical understanding of components, critical dimensions, and assembly interactions.
• Mindset focused on continuous improvement

How to Apply

FEMA Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. If interested, please submit your resume to employment@fema-corp.com or in person at 1716 Vanderbilt Ave. Portage, MI for consideration.