Buyer - St. Louis, Missouri

Hunter Engineering Company, a global leader in the development and manufacturing of computer-based automotive service equipment, is seeking a Purchasing Agent for our manufacturing operations. Founded in 1946, Hunter has a history of product ingenuity and growth and has been a worldwide market leader for decades.  Our computer-based products set the quality and technological standard in the industry. Hunter Engineering Company offers state-of-the-art automotive service equipment such as wheel alignment systems, wheel balancers, tire changers, lift racks, and brake testers.

Our purchasing department uses advanced tools that make the daily tasks quick and easy, so that you can concentrate your efforts on value added activities such as lowering total cost of ownership, improving quality and delivery metrics.  Information (such as inventory and quality) is displayed graphically so that you can quickly understand the situation.  No paging through multiple text based screens to find out simple information.  The location will be at Hunter Engineering Company's headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri.

Job Description:

• Purchase required materials that support production from approved sources to assure on-time delivery at acceptable levels of quality, price, and supplier support.  Lead and facilitate the strategic source selection and approval process.
• The individual will be given total responsibility for their commodity area. 
• Identify, quote, and award bid packages based on Total Cost of Ownership.
• The position will entail working closely with vendors by conducting on-site production facility audits and quarterly performance reviews to support exceptional supplier management.
• Review quality metrics and take appropriate corrective actions with vendors.
• Keep current on industry-wide pricing trends, technological innovations, and overall market conditions through research and effective supplier interaction.
• Evaluate existing suppliers and consolidate when appropriate.
• Maintain proper inventory levels of assigned commodities utilizing tools that support lean initiatives. 
• Work with engineering as needed to find alternative sources.

Qualifications: 

• 0-3 years of purchasing experience (preferably in a manufacturing environment) or a college graduate with a B.S. in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related.
• Electronics knowledge or related background would be a plus.
• Attention to detail.
• Good communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Strong negotiation skills.

Keywords:  purchasing, procure, procurement, CPM, source, metals, automotive, technology, supply chain management, supply matrix, purchasing, buyer, electronics, electrical