Senior Buyer: Onsite Automotive Procurement Leader

Talentify; Pontiac (MI); On-site; USD 88,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Aston Carter is seeking a Senior Buyer to manage strategic supplier relationships and drive cost reduction in a high-mix, low-volume automotive environment. You will develop purchasing policies, ensure supplier performance, and support cross-functional teams with reliable sourcing solutions.

The role emphasizes strong negotiation, ERP/MRP proficiency, and experience with automotive OEMs. This on-site position is based in Pontiac, MI with a competitive benefits and bonus structure.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of professional experience in procurement or supply chain management.
• Bachelor’s degree in purchasing, supply chain, business, technical discipline, or a related field.
• Powertrain, driveline, or brake line purchasing experience in automotive contexts.
• Experience with automotive OEMs such as Stellantis, GM, Ford, VW, Honda preferred.
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Experience in a high mix, low volume manufacturing environment.
• Strong cost modeling, market analysis, and market supply dynamics.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement purchasing policies, procedures, and systems.
• Collaborate with product engineering and quality teams to define supplier requirements.
• Identify and evaluate vendors for materials, equipment, and supplies.
• Prepare bid awards requiring board approval and ensure policy alignment.
• Review PO claims and contracts for conformance with terms and regulations.
• Approve specifications for bids to ensure clarity and competitiveness.
• Administer and maintain online purchasing systems and data integrity.
• Process requisitions and purchase orders with accuracy and timeliness.
• Develop and execute cost reduction strategies to improve margins.
• Resolve vendor grievances and protect company interests.
• Analyze market trends and supplier delivery capabilities.
• Participate in specification development for equipment and substitutes.
• Maintain records of goods ordered and received for traceability.
• Represent the company in contract negotiations and policy discussions.
• Prepare market condition and costs reports for leadership.
• Arrange disposal of surplus materials cost-effectively.
• Develop operating strategies related to purchasing and supply chain.
• Contribute to organizational policies affecting procurement.
• Implement process or policy changes to drive efficiency.

Skills

Procurement experience

Supply chain management

ERP/MRP systems

Negotiation skills

Cost modeling

Analytical skills

Vendor management

MS Excel

Automotive procurement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in purchasing, supply chain, business, or related field

Tools

ERP/MRP systems

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Aston Carter is seeking a Senior Buyer to manage strategic supplier relationships and drive cost reduction in a high-mix, low-volume automotive environment. You will develop purchasing policies, ensure supplier performance, and support cross-functional teams with reliable sourcing solutions.

The role emphasizes strong negotiation, ERP/MRP proficiency, and experience with automotive OEMs. This on-site position is based in Pontiac, MI with a competitive benefits and bonus structure.