Machine and Fabrication Technical Buyer

Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.; Nashville, Northern (TN, KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Medical benefits from day one

Paid parental leave

Automation projects experience

Collaborative environment

Career growth opportunities

Quality craftsmanship focus

Job summary

J.R. AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGIES, LLC is seeking a Machine & Fabrication Technical Buyer to guide sourcing decisions in Nashville, TN or Holland, MI. The ideal candidate blends manufacturing know-how with supplier management to ensure optimal technical and business outcomes.

The role requires 3+ years in manufacturing or automation, strong ERP experience (Epicor preferred), and the ability to travel up to 10% for supplier reviews and cross-site collaborations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred but not required; manufacturing or fabrication background valued.
• Minimum 3+ years in manufacturing, fabrication, or project-based environment.
• Experience working with suppliers on technical manufacturing requirements, not just commercial terms.
• Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement experience in supplier performance.
• Proficient in ERP systems; Epicor experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Act as a technical SME in machining and fabrication; advise on parts design, methods, supplier capabilities, and cost/quality/delivery impacts.
• Evaluate and improve machining/fabrication supplier base based on capabilities and capacity.
• Assist with make-vs-buy decisions leveraging internal capabilities and external suppliers.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to align timelines, constraints, and technical requirements.
• Support BOMs and sourcing strategies to meet project needs; drive expediting efforts.
• Build strong supplier relationships through regular technical discussions and shop visits.
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and terms as needed.

Skills

Machining & fabrication knowledge

Strong communication skills

Vendor/supplier management

Lean manufacturing experience

MS Excel/Analytical skills

Willingness to travel

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

Epicor ERP

Excel

PowerPoint

Word

Job description

Location: Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America

Job Schedule: Full time

Remote: No

Company Name: J.R. AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGIES, LLC

Profession (Job Category): Customer Service & Contact Center Operations

Why Join Us

• Competitive wages, medical benefits starting your first day, and paid parental leave
• Opportunity to work on unique, custom automation projects
• A collaborative, engineering-driven environment
• Career growth and skill development opportunities
• A role where craftsmanship and quality truly matter

Location Type

Onsite - Nashville, TN or Holland, MI

Role Overview

We are seeking a Machine & Fabrication Technical Buyer to join our team in Nashville, TN or Holland, MI. This role is designed for a professional with a strong manufacturing and fabrication background who can apply that technical knowledge to guide sourcing decisions, mentor others, and ensure the right manufacturing solutions - whether internal or external - are used to support complex automation projects.

How You’ll Make an Impact

• Act as a technical subject matter expert in machining and fabrication, providing guidance on part design, manufacturing methods, supplier capabilities, and feasibility, and advising on the cost, quality, and delivery impacts of manufacturing decisions.
• Evaluate and continuously improve the preferred machining and fabrication supplier base based on demonstrated technical capabilities, capacity, quality, and alignment to JR Automation's manufacturing needs.
• Assist with make vs. buy decisions using deep knowledge of internal manufacturing capabilities and external fabrication suppliers to ensure optimal technical and business outcomes.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to align on timelines, supplier constraints, delivery schedules, and technical requirements, ensuring components meet design and production needs.
• Apply manufacturing expertise to project bills of material, ensuring components are sourced in alignment with supply chain strategy and project requirements.
• Support material expediting activities by identifying root causes and working with suppliers and internal teams to resolve manufacturing challenges.
• Build and maintain strong supplier and stakeholder relationships through regular technical discussions and shop visits.
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and commercial terms as needed.
• Collaborate with Commodity and Strategic Purchasing teams to ensure manufacturing and fabrication sourcing strategies deliver optimal technical value across the organization.
• Work alongside Supply Chain Management partners across business units to share best practices in manufacturing-focused sourcing and supplier management.
• Note: This list of responsibilities is inclusive and intended as a guideline for primary activities.

What You’ll Bring

• Relevant experience in Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, or Business, with a bachelor’s degree preferred but not required, manufacturing or fabrication experience highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of machining and fabrication processes, such as machining, welding, sheet metal, and structural fabrication.
• Minimum of 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing, fabrication, or project-based environment, ideally supporting engineered-to-order systems or automation projects.
• Proven experience working with suppliers on technical manufacturing requirements, not just commercial transactions.
• Strong experience with ERP systems; Epicor experience preferred.
• Experience supporting lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives, particularly in supplier performance and manufacturing flow.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word for technical analysis, reporting, and communication.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build credibility and relationships across Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and supplier organizations.
• Willingness to travel up to 10% to supplier locations and other JR facilities to support technical reviews and relationship management.
• Current or prior JR Automation experience, or experience within the automation industry, strongly preferred.

Disclaimer

JR Automation requires candidates to successfully complete a 10-panel drug screen, physical examination, and background check.

Company Overview

At JR Automation, A Hitachi Group Company, we discover potential, reimagine limits, and advance industry. When faced with a problem, we find a solution. Together, we push what's possible to automate for tomorrow. Join our team of 2,000+ at one of our 20+ facilities around the world and be a part of the most experienced team of advanced automation integrators. Fueled by Possible. Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job at JR Automation, please send the nature of request and contact information to [e-mail]. Queries other than accommodation requests will not be responded to. Hitachi brings together the world's greatest minds to help breathe life into new possibilities - and drive innovation for a better future. That's why we look for individuals who share our pioneering spirit, have imaginative ideas and are fearless when it comes to tackling the world's biggest challenges. Our people love technology - and they love making a difference. They have a passion for finding new solutions and working with brilliant colleagues. Every day they dedicate themselves to a huge range of exciting projects, contributing to the Hitachi vision around the globe. From engineering new sustainability solutions that conserve water and energy to creating the infrastructure for the smart cities of tomorrow, there's no challenge too great for our pioneers. And there's no shortage of opportunities for you to make a difference. Come and experience the dynamic, collaborative and creative environments where your ideas are welcome and new discoveries are waiting.

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