Senior Buyer

ElDorado National California, Inc; Riverside (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Buyer with a robust background in OEM procurement within the automotive sector. This dynamic role involves sourcing and negotiating critical materials, managing supplier performance, and optimizing costs. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical and negotiation skills, along with a deep understanding of OEM supply chains. Join a forward-thinking company that values diversity and is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. This is a fantastic opportunity for those looking to make a significant impact in a vibrant and challenging environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in OEM procurement, especially in automotive.
• Strong relationships with Tier 1 and Tier 2 automotive suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Procure materials ensuring optimal cost, quality, and delivery.
• Negotiate contracts and manage supplier performance.
• Conduct procurement analyses to optimize decision-making.

Skills

Procurement for OEMs

Negotiation Skills

Analytical Skills

Supplier Management

Inventory Control

Problem-Solving

Cost Optimization

JIT Models

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain or Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Excel

ERP/MRP Systems

Job description

Job Description

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Buyer with a proven track record in Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) procurement within the automotive sector. The ideal candidate will excel in sourcing and negotiating critical materials such as raw materials, electronic components, steel, engines, and tires. This role demands expertise in OEM supply chains, cost optimization, supplier management, and inventory control. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills, coupled with deep knowledge of OEM standards and requirements, are essential for success in this position.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may include other duties and responsibilities, as deemed necessary by management.

• Procure materials in compliance with OEM specifications, ensuring optimal cost, quality, and delivery.
• Negotiate contracts and manage supplier performance to achieve best value and schedule alignment.
• Oversee the RFQ process, procurement awards, purchase order creation, and goods receipt management.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to meet production and quality standards.
• Manage inventory to support just-in-time (JIT) production while minimizing manufacturing disruptions.
• Analyze and control Price Per Variance (PPV) to meet cost objectives and enhance profitability.
• Ensure suppliers meet delivery schedules (OTTD) and promptly address performance issues to avoid delays.
• Conduct detailed procurement analyses to optimize decision-making and improve supply chain efficiency.
• Maintain corporate records and ensure compliance with Non-Disclosure Agreements, Export Compliance, and Contracts.
• Ensure supplier compliance with OEM-specific quality and regulatory standards, including ISO/TS certifications and APQP processes.
• Leverage advanced Excel tools and ERP/MRP systems to analyze procurement data and provide actionable insights.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proven experience in procurement for OEMs, including sourcing raw materials, electronic components, steel, engines, and tires.
• Deep understanding of OEM supply chain operations, JIT models, and supplier performance metrics.
• Understanding of Product Lifecycle Management, Configuration Management, Configuration Control, NPI, and production control.
• Experience with IMP/IMS, risk management, configuration management, requirements management processes.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUPs, pivot tables, advanced formulas) and familiarity with ERP/MRP systems.
• Knowledge about inventory, inventory valuation, turns, inventory carrying cost, soft dollars vs. hard dollars.
• Knowledge of OEM-specific quality and compliance requirements, including ISO/TS certifications and APQP processes.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills.

Education and/or Experience:

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or a combination of education and work experience, preferably in supply chain or engineering.
• Minimum 5 years procurement experience in a dynamic environment, with a preference for automotive procurement.
• Strong relationships with Tier 1 and Tier 2 automotive suppliers are highly desirable.

Work Environment/Conditions:

• General office environment with work on the plant floor as required.

In accordance with California's wage transparency law (Senate Bill 1162), we are committed to pay equity and transparency. The salary range reflected on the job posting is our good faith estimate of what we expect to pay for this role at the time of posting. While we do not typically hire at the top of the salary range, initial offers are based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience, with opportunities for growth and increases over time.

ElDorado National California Inc. (ENC) is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected class under applicable laws. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected.

ENC takes affirmative action to employ and advance employment opportunities for minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply and join our team.

ENC is also committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal access to opportunities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, please contact the HR Department for assistance.