Operational Buyer

GEA Germany GmbH; Romeoville (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

13 paid holidays + 136 hours PTO

401(k) with employer match

Job summary

GEA Group in the United States (Romeoville, IL) seeks an Operational Buyer to manage end-to-end procurement for electronics, plastics, and rubber components. You will negotiate with suppliers, manage orders, and collaborate with Strategic Buyers to optimize costs and delivery.

The role requires 5+ years in procurement, strong SAP and Excel skills, and a focus on quality, compliance, and process improvement. Domestic travel may be required based on project needs.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
• +5 years relevant experience in related field.
• Certifications (e.g., CPSM, C.P.M.) are a plus.
• Strong knowledge of procurement processes, inventory management, and supplier relations.

Responsibilities

• Procurement and Ordering: Source and purchase various goods and services, ensuring timely and cost-effective acquisition.
• Supplier Management: Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers and evaluate performance.
• Setting Up New Suppliers: Identify potential new suppliers and assist with contracts and pricing.
• Inventory Management: Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with sales and product teams.
• Cost Control and Analysis: Analyze market trends and pricing for cost savings.
• Compliance and Quality Assurance: Ensure procured goods meet standards and regulatory requirements.
• Working with Third Parties for Supplier Payments: Coordinate invoice processing and payments with vendors.
• Collaboration and Communication: Coordinate with internal departments and suppliers to ensure smooth operations.

Skills

Procurement

Supplier relations

Inventory management

Cost analysis

Data-driven decisions

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

SAP

MS Excel

Job description

GEA Group, founded in Germany in 1881, is a global leader in engineering solutions, serving industries such as food and beverage, pharma, dairy, and more. With over 18,000 employees worldwide and a strong U.S. presence since 1929, GEA combines the heritage of a well-established company with the innovation of a forward-thinking industry leader. At GEA, we’re not just building equipment, we’re building lasting careers with an average employee tenure range from 5 to over 11+ years, reflecting the strong culture, growth opportunities, and support we provide. Working at GEA Group has significant benefits:

• Start strong – Medical, dental, and vision coverage begins on your first day
• Recharge and refresh – Enjoy 13 paid holidays, including a flexible floating holiday, and 136 hours of PTO to relax or explore
• Invest in your future – A 7% 401(k) employer match helps grow your retirement savings faster
• Keep learning – Take advantage of tuition reimbursement to further your education or skillset
• Live well – Our wellness incentive program rewards healthy habits
• Get support when you need it – Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program for personal or professional guidance
• Save smart – Flexible Health Savings and Spending Accounts to manage out-of-pocket expenses

Responsibilities / Tasks

The Operational Buyer will manage the buying of a wide range of goods and services, (example electronics, plastics, nylon, and rubber parts) This role involves sourcing and purchasing these products, negotiating with suppliers, maintaining inventory levels, ensuring timely delivery, setting up new suppliers, and working with third parties to handle supplier payments.

Key Responsibilities: Procurement and Ordering: Source and purchase various goods and services, ensuring timely and cost-effective acquisition. Place orders, negotiate pricing with support from the Strategic Buyers, and secure favorable terms and delivery schedules with suppliers. Monitor and manage purchase orders from creation through to delivery, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies.

Supplier Management: Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers. Evaluate supplier performance based on factors such as quality, cost, and delivery reliability. Address and resolve any issues related to supplier performance, product quality, or delivery delays.

Setting Up New Suppliers: Identify and assess potential new suppliers Assist the strategic buyers with contracts and pricing. Establish terms with new suppliers to integrate them into the supply chain effectively. Maintain records of new supplier setups and ensure all necessary documentation is completed. Onboard new suppliers, ensuring they are aligned with the company’s quality standards and procurement processes.

Inventory Management: Monitor inventory levels of various products to ensure adequate stock while minimizing excess and carrying costs. Work with sales and product management teams to forecast demand and adjust purchasing strategies as needed. Conduct regular inventory reviews and reconcile discrepancies.

Cost Control and Analysis: Analyze market trends and pricing as comparison by suppliers to make informed purchasing decisions and achieve cost savings. Implement purchasing strategies to optimize purchasing processes and reduce costs. Prepare and present reports on purchasing activities, cost savings, and inventory status to management.

Compliance and Quality Assurance: Ensure that all procured goods meet company standards and regulatory requirements. Collaborate with quality control teams to address and resolve any quality issues related to purchased products. Maintain accurate records of purchases and supplier communications.

Working with Third Parties for Supplier Payments: Coordinate with third-party service providers to manage aspects such as invoice processing and supplier payments. Ensure that all invoices are reviewed, approved, and processed in a timely manner. Address and resolve any discrepancies or issues related to invoice payments, ensuring accuracy and adherence to contractual terms. Maintain effective communication with third-party service providers to facilitate smooth payment processes and resolve any issues that arise.

Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with internal departments such as product management, sales, strategic procurement and logistics to understand their needs and adjust procurement strategies accordingly. Collaborate with the strategic procurement team for support and alignment. Communicate effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders to resolve issues and ensure smooth operations.

Your Profile / Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent. Experience: +5 years relevant experience in related field. Certifications (e.g., CPSM, C.P.M.) are a plus. Skills: Analytical thinking and cost management Proven experience as a Purchasing Specialist, or in a similar role Strong knowledge of procurement processes, inventory management, and supplier relations. SAP experience a plus Effective communication skills, both written and verbal. Excellent interpersonal skills. Proficiency in purchasing software's and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Strong analytical skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions. Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

The typical base pay range for this position at the start of employment is expected to be between $70,000- $85,000 per year. GEA Group has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States. The pay range is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. The estimated range is the budgeted amount for the position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications, and other job‑related reasons. You may be eligible for additional rewards, such as discretionary bonus (based on eligibility) and/or equity awards.

Please note: This position is based in the United States and does not offer visa or work sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship.

GEA is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will therefore receive consideration for employment without regard to age, sex, race, color, religion, world view, national origin, genetics, disability, gender identity, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other protected characteristic required by applicable law. Applicants with disabilities are welcome and will be given special consideration if they are equally qualified.

#engineeringforthebetter Did we spark your interest? GEA is one of the largest suppliers of process technology for the food industry and a wide range of other industries. The international technology group focuses on process technology and components for sophisticated production processes in various end-user markets.