Buyer III

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation; Newark (DE); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work arrangement

Annual bonus and salary increases

Generous benefits package

Job summary

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation seeks a Buyer III to lead strategic sourcing for gas, utility operations, and capital projects. The role focuses on developing sourcing plans, negotiating terms, and driving value through cost optimization and risk mitigation.

You will manage supplier relationships, conduct market analysis, and guide junior buyers while ensuring governance and compliance. This hybrid role offers growth and a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field.
• 5-8 years of procurement, purchasing, or supply chain experience.
• Valid Driver's License required.
• Ability to lead supplier performance management and continuous improvement efforts.
• Ability to lead complex sourcing events and high‑value negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Lead sourcing strategies for complex, high‑value categories and projects.
• Partner with senior stakeholders to develop sourcing plans aligned with business objectives.
• Design and execute complex RFPs, bids, and supplier evaluation processes.
• Lead negotiations for pricing, contract terms, and agreements with involvement from legal and leadership.
• Manage strategic supplier relationships, including performance reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Identify and mitigate sourcing risks such as supply constraints and pricing volatility.
• Conduct advanced market analysis, benchmarking, and cost modeling.
• Drive cost savings, cost avoidance, and value creation initiatives.
• Support procurement planning for large capital and infrastructure projects.
• Ensure compliance with procurement governance, regulatory requirements, and audit standards.
• Mentor junior buyers and share sourcing best practices.
• Lead process improvements and contribute to procurement strategy development.

Skills

Procurement experience

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Sourcing strategy

Cost analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field

Job description

Buyer III – Hybrid – Dover, DE, Newark, DE, Yulee, FL, West Palm Beach, FL, Debary, FL, Winter Haven, FL, Orrville, OH

Your role in our success will be:

The Buyer III leads strategic sourcing and procurement activities for complex categories supporting gas and utility operations, capital projects, and enterprise initiatives. This role develops sourcing strategies, leads negotiations, manages key supplier relationships, and drives value through cost optimization, risk mitigation, and process improvements.

What makes us great

At the heart of our Company is a dedication to delivering energy that drives progress. We put people first, work to keep them safe and build trusting relationships.

What you'll be working on

• Lead sourcing strategies for complex, high‑value categories and projects
• Partner with senior stakeholders to develop sourcing plans aligned with business objectives
• Design and execute complex RFPs, bids, and supplier evaluation processes
• Lead negotiations for pricing, commercial terms, and contract agreements in coordination with legal and leadership
• Manage strategic supplier relationships, including performance reviews and continuous improvement initiatives
• Identify and mitigate sourcing risks (e.g., supply constraints, pricing volatility, contractor availability)
• Conduct advanced market analysis, benchmarking, and cost modeling
• Drive cost savings, cost avoidance, and value creation initiatives
• Support procurement planning for large capital and infrastructure projects
• Ensure full compliance with procurement governance, regulatory requirements, and audit standards
• Mentor junior buyers and provide guidance on sourcing best practices
• Lead process improvement initiatives and contribute to procurement strategy development

Who you are

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred
• 5-8 years of procurement, purchasing, or supply chain experience
• Valid Driver's License required
• Ability to lead supplier performance management and continuous improvement efforts
• Ability to lead complex sourcing events and high‑value negotiations
• Ability to develop and execute category strategies aligned with business goals
• Ability to assess and mitigate supply chain risks
• Ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive decision‑making
• Ability to mentor junior staff and promote best practices across procurement
• Ability to drive measurable value (cost savings, cost avoidance, service improvements)
• Advanced knowledge of strategic sourcing, category management, and procurement strategy
• Deep understanding of contract structures, risk management, and commercial terms
• Knowledge of utility industry supply markets, including construction, engineering, and operations categories
• Understanding of regulatory, compliance, and governance requirements in procurement
• Advanced negotiation and influencing skills
• Strong financial and cost modeling / spend analysis capabilities
• Strategic thinking and sourcing strategy development
• Project management skills for complex sourcing initiatives

What's in it for you

• Flexible work arrangement
• Competitive base salary
• Fantastic opportunities for career growth
• Cooperative, supportive and empowered team atmosphere
• Annual bonus and salary increase opportunities
• Monthly recognition events
• Endless wellness initiatives and community events
• Robust and customizable benefit packages—choose what works best with your life. Options include generous 401k, medical, dental and life insurance, tuition reimbursement, compensated volunteer hours and MORE!
• Paid time off, holidays and a separate bank of sick time

Chesapeake Utilities Corporation is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse workforce. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status, among other factors. Applicants with a disability that need assistance applying for a position may email [e-mail].

Equal Opportunity Employer / Protected Veterans / Individuals with Disabilities. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.