Position Summary

The Senior Buyer is responsible for the strategic sourcing and procurement of wood and metal materials to support manufacturing operations. This role owns supplier relationships, negotiates contracts, manages cost‑saving initiatives, and ensures continuity of supply while meeting quality and production requirements. The Senior Buyer works cross‑functionally with Engineering, Operations, and Quality teams to align procurement strategies with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Sourcing & Procurement

Lead the procurement of wood, lumber, panels, steel, aluminum, and other metal materials to support production schedules and operational needs

Develop and implement sourcing strategies to optimize cost, quality, availability, and supplier performance

Conduct RFQs/RFPs, evaluate supplier proposals, and negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms

Own total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis and drive cost‑reduction and cost‑avoidance initiatives

Supplier & Vendor Management

Develop, qualify, and manage a high‑performing supplier base for wood and metal commodities

Monitor supplier performance through KPIs, scorecards, and periodic reviews

Collaborate with suppliers to address quality, delivery, and capacity issues

Manage long‑term supply agreements and blanket purchase orders

ERP, Inventory & Operations Support

Utilize ERP systems to manage purchasing activities, including requisitions, purchase orders, and supplier data

Partner with Operations and Planning teams to ensure material availability and mitigate supply risk

Support inventory strategies, including safety stock levels and lead‑time optimization

Resolve purchasing discrepancies related to pricing, quantities, or delivery schedules

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

Work closely with Engineering to review specifications and material requirements

Partner with Quality to support supplier compliance and corrective actions

Support continuous improvement initiatives within procurement and supply chain operations

Required Qualifications

Minimum 5+ years of purchasing experience, with direct experience sourcing wood and/or metal materials

Strong negotiation skills and supplier relationship management experience

Experience working in a manufacturing or industrial environment

Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP or similar preferred)

Strong analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skills

Work Environment

This is a direct placement opportunity within a modern, well-maintained facility featuring an updated and comfortable interior. The Senior Buyer works closely with Senior leadership and reports to the COO, collaborating frequently with Engineering, Operations, and other cross-functional teams. The role relies heavily on ERP/MRP systems, including Microsoft Dynamics 365, as well as advanced use of Microsoft Excel for analysis and reporting. The environment supports professional collaboration, strategic decision-making, and continuous improvement within a contemporary office setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Elkhorn, WI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $90000.00 - $100000.00/yr.

health dental vision \nPalmer Hamilton internal benefits

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Elkhorn,WI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 8, 2026.

\n

\n\nAbout Aston Carter:\n

Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service.

\n\n

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

\n

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com for other accommodation options.

\n\n