Buyer

KUKA; Lentner (MO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary packages

Flexible work schedules

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

KUKA is seeking a procurement professional to manage internal purchase requisitions, supplier quotations, cost tracking, and compliance with quality and safety standards.

You will collaborate with Operations, Finance, Quality, and Logistics, support SAP ARIBA and ERP workflows, and drive continuous improvement of purchasing processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in operations discipline or 4 years of experience in procurement.
• Experience with SAP Ariba, SAP ERP (S-4HANA) and SharePoint required to support purchasing workflows.
• Proven ability to manage supplier relationships and cost savings.

Responsibilities

• Manages internal purchase requisitions across NAM region for robotics materials and services.
• Evaluate supplier quotations, negotiate pricing and lead times to meet delivery requirements.
• Track cost savings, document decisions, and audit documentation; support Accounts Payable as needed.
• Maintain vendor records, pricing agreements, and ERP documentation for audit readiness.
• Coordinate supplier onboarding and qualification in compliance with procedures.
• Collaborate with Operations, Finance, Quality, and Logistics; drive ARIBA adoption and policy compliance.
• Provide local procurement communication, training, and continuous process improvements.

Skills

Procurement

Vendor management

Cost control

Negotiation

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in operations discipline (Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering)

Tools

SAP Ariba

SAP ERP (S/4HANA)

SharePoint

Job description

Discover your impact with KUKA

KUKA offers an enormous spectrum of possibilities to advance your career, live your passions and unlock your potential. We´re one of the world's leading automation specialists, offering global opportunities in areas such as robotics, automation, logistics, software solutions and electronics. If you´re a go-getter, a visionary with bold ambitions and believer in collaboration and mutual respect, then you're poised for success here at KUKA.

Make an impact

SUMMARY

Responsible for efficiently purchasing materials and services, managing supplier performance, controlling costs, and ensuring accurate order fulfillment while supporting manufacturing operations and complying with quality, safety, and company standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Manages internal purchase requisitions across the NAM region for business unit Robotics Purchase direct and/or indirect materials & services in alignment with business requirements Obtain and evaluate supplier quotations, negotiate pricing and lead times as required in order to meet delivery requirements Track and document cost savings, sourcing decisions, and audit documentation Review invoices, resolve discrepancies, and support Accounts Payable as needed Maintain vendor records, pricing agreements, and documentation for audit readiness Monitor existing purchase orders and routine follow-up with approved vendors Maintain supplier and purchasing data in ERP systems Coordinate supplier onboarding and qualification in compliance with company procedures Collaborate cross‑functionally with Operations, Finance, Quality, and Logistics Act as Procurement Key User for SAP ARIBA at the assigned location Drive ARIBA adoption, correct usage, and compliance with procurement policies Troubleshoot process and system issues; serve as first‑level support and interface to central ARIBA Maintain local vendor catalogs, templates, and guided buying content where applicable Support testing, rollouts, enhancements, and continuous improvement of ARIBA procurement processes Deliver local procurement communication, training, and awareness initiatives Manage supplier relationships, including performance monitoring, issue resolution, and continuous improvement initiatives Participates in Quality meetings regarding process flow and efficiency issues in the Sales and Order processing related areas Understands and follows safety regulations and identifies safety concerns Adheres to the Quality Systems and participates in continual improvement.

What you need to succeed

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Bachelor degree in an operations discipline (e.g. Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, Engineering) and or 4 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Excellent knowledge of computers and applications, including experience with SAP Ariba, SAP ERP (P80 / S‑4HANA), and SharePoint required to support purchasing workflows, supplier management, and documentation.

KUKA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Our promise to you

Our culture is deeply rooted in our passion to make robotics and automatic solutions accessible and easy to use. The result? We make peoples´ lives easier and safer, across the world. Diversity is the beating heart of our company - and we appreciate every single one of our bright and bold brainiacs. We encourage everyone to bring their full selves to work, fostering an environment where inspiration, expertise, and personal growth can flourish. Our collective goal? To achieve greatness and ignite innovative, positive change - not only within the automation industry but also beyond its boundaries. And in return, we prioritize creating a supportive, empowering, and caring environment for all.

Perks and benefits

As part of our commitment to the well-being of our employees, we offer a range of comprehensive perks and benefits. From competitive salary packages to flexible work schedules, and professional development opportunities, we aim to provide a holistic approach to employee satisfaction. We believe in recognizing and appreciating the hard work and dedication of our workforce, and our perks reflect this commitment. Our goal is to create a workplace where employees feel valued, motivated, and inspired to contribute their best. Join us and enjoy the rewards of being part of a company that prioritizes the well-being and growth of its team.

DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) statement

Our core belief is in treating each other with kindness, an open mind, and mutual respect, creating an environment where everyone feels empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. KUKA is a company committed to equal opportunities. We manage every application with meticulous care and consideration - with a decision-making process that pays no heed to your origin, educational background, age, gender, sexual orientation, or your religious or political beliefs. If you join KUKA, you will have ample opportunities to share what motivates you and what defines your individuality.

Join the journey!

Note for United States job postings (EEO statement):

The KUKA Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.