Laboratories Services Buyer/Expediter

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia; Charlottesville, Virginia, Evanston Township (VA, MN, IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Laboratory Services Buyer/Expediter to ensure the seamless flow of materials for laboratory operations. This role is vital for maintaining workflow continuity in research and production environments. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical knowledge of laboratory equipment and compliance regulations, along with excellent communication and organizational skills. By managing procurement processes and collaborating with various stakeholders, you will play a key role in enhancing operational efficiency. Join a dynamic team committed to excellence and innovation in laboratory services.

Qualifications

• 3 years in Supply Chain Management or Inventory Control required.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage procurement of laboratory supplies and equipment efficiently.
• Collaborate with vendors and internal teams to resolve supply issues.

Skills

Technical Knowledge of laboratory equipment

Attention to Detail

Communication Skills

Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Time Management and Organization

Record Keeping and Documentation

Adaptability and Flexibility

Regulatory Compliance knowledge

Education

Associate degree or Certified Profession in Supply Management

Tools

ERP systems

Laboratory Information Management Systems

Job description

The Laboratory Services Buyer/Expediter is responsible for ensuring the efficient flow of materials, equipment, and supplies required for laboratory operations. This role is crucial in maintaining an uninterrupted workflow within laboratories, which can be involved in research, testing, or production, in collaboration with procurement operations and materials management.

Key Skills and Qualifications:

1. Technical Knowledge:
   • Understanding of laboratory equipment, chemicals, and other specialized materials required in various lab settings.
   • Familiarity with laboratory compliance regulations (such as safety standards or hazardous material handling).
2. Attention to Detail:
   • High level of attention to detail when ordering, inspecting, and receiving supplies to ensure that items meet required specifications.
   • Familiarity with handling hazardous or sensitive materials and ensuring they are stored and transported properly.
3. Communication Skills:
   • Strong communication abilities to work effectively with laboratory staff, suppliers, and management.
   • Clear and concise communication for reporting on inventory status, supply chain issues, or delays.
4. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:
   • Ability to anticipate potential supply shortages and resolve supply chain issues quickly.
   • Quick decision-making skills to troubleshoot logistical or operational challenges.
5. Time Management and Organization:
   • Excellent organizational skills to prioritize tasks and manage multiple orders or supply requests.
   • Ability to efficiently process and deliver supplies without causing delays.
6. Record Keeping and Documentation:
   • Ability to keep detailed records of all incoming and outgoing supplies, orders, and inventory.
   • Familiarity with software systems for tracking orders and managing inventories (e.g., ERP or laboratory information management systems).
7. Adaptability and Flexibility:
   • Ability to adapt to changing needs or unexpected delays and maintain workflow continuity.
   • Flexibility to adjust priorities as laboratory demands shift.
8. Regulatory Compliance:
   • Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations regarding storage and handling of chemicals and biological materials.
   • Ability to ensure all supplies comply with health, safety, and environmental standards.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Purchases a large volume of varied and complex commodities in a centralized procurement program, working with vendors to ensure high-quality merchandise aligned with cost, quality, and delivery targets.
• Recommends procedural improvements and participates in departmental initiatives.
• Weekly reporting on procurement statistics, opportunities, and supply chain issues.
• Develops and implements effective procurement practices.
• Maintains procurement records and analyzes data for reporting.
• Acts as liaison between end-users and vendors regarding purchase processes and inquiries.
• Collaborates with Accounts Payable, Receiving, and vendor support to resolve invoice and purchase order issues.
• Performs specific area activities; other duties as assigned.

Position Compensation Range:

$20.68 - $32.05 Hourly

Minimum Requirements:

Education: Associate degree or Certified Profession in Supply Management required.

Experience: 3 years in Supply Chain Management, Inventory Control, or Accounting if lacking the specified education.

Licensure: None

Physical Demands:

Proficient communication, auditory, and visual skills; attention to detail; ability to write legibly. No specific physical requirements.

The University of Virginia is committed to diversity and equal opportunity employment, considering all qualified applicants without regard to various personal attributes.