About the Role

We are seeking an Experienced Buyer to lead end‑to‑end procurement for plastic injection and textile commodities within a regulated manufacturing environment. This role owns sourcing strategy, supplier performance, and cost optimization across a significant annual spend, while partnering cross‑functionally to support both new product introductions and ongoing production.

This position is ideal for a strategic, hands‑on procurement professional with experience supporting government or Department of Defense programs and working closely with engineering, quality, and operations teams.

What You’ll DoLead the full lifecycle procurement process for plastic injection and textile commodities, from sourcing through supplier performance managementOwn and execute category strategies aligned with business and supply chain objectivesManage and optimize a supplier base of 50+ suppliers, including supplier rationalization following acquisitionsNegotiate contracts, pricing, terms, and conditions to meet cost, quality, delivery, and risk‑mitigation goalsConduct regular supplier visits to evaluate quality, delivery, compliance, and performancePartner cross‑functionally with engineering, quality, operations, and supply chain teams to align sourcing strategies with business needsSupport new product introductions (NPI) by reviewing part numbers, drawings, and supplier capabilitiesEnsure compliance with procurement processes and government regulations (FAR and DAR)Create, issue, and manage purchase orders and supplier agreementsLead and participate in strategic sourcing initiatives and competitive bid eventsDrive continuous improvement through cost reduction, lead‑time reduction, and inventory optimizationMonitor supplier performance, investigate issues, and drive corrective action plansManage an annual spend of approximately $15–$20MUse Sage ERP and Microsoft Excel to manage purchasing activities, data accuracy, and reportingWhat We’re Looking For (Required Qualifications)Bachelor’s degree (business or related field preferred)8+ years of buying and negotiation experience in a manufacturing environmentProven experience negotiating detailed contracts and commercial termsExperience supporting government and Department of Defense programs, including FAR/DAR complianceHistory of managing annual spend of $15M+Experience managing 50+ suppliersProficiency in Microsoft Excel for analysis and reportingHands‑on experience using an ERP system (Sage preferred)Strong understanding of materials management and supply chain principlesNice‑to‑Have QualificationsExperience in aerospace or Tier 1 / Tier 2 automotive manufacturingFamiliarity working with technical drawings and part numbersStrong cross‑functional communication and collaboration skillsContinuous improvement mindset with experience in cost savings and inventory optimizationAbility to manage multiple strategic projects while meeting quarterly objectivesInterest in growth opportunities within supply chain, such as expanded scope or freight oversight

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cadillac, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $40.87 - $45.67/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job\n classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be\n subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits\n available for this temporary role may include the following:\n\n
• Medical, dental & vision\n
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital\n
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available\n
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)\n
• Short and long-term disability\n
• Health Spending Account (HSA)\n
• Transportation benefits\n
• Employee Assistance Program\n
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Cadillac,MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 30, 2026.

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\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.

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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.

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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.

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