Strategic Auto Indirect/Direct Buyer

NTN Bearing Corporation; Columbus (IN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

NTN Bearing Corporation in Columbus, Indiana, is seeking an Indirect/Direct Buyer to source indirect materials and services, including MRO supplies, tooling, capital equipment, and facility-related needs, ensuring uninterrupted plant operations.

The ideal candidate will have experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and a strong understanding of indirect procurement, supplier management, and cost control.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain, business, or related field.
• 3+ years purchasing experience in manufacturing.
• Experience with indirect procurement (MRO, services, capital, tooling).
• Strong negotiation, analytics, vendor management, and financial aptitude.
• Proficiency with ERP and MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Source and procure a broad range of MRO materials, supplies, and services for manufacturing operations, optimizing cost, quality, and service.
• Manage end-to-end requisition processing: RFQ, quotes, bids, supplier selection to meet cost targets.
• Apply analytical thinking to identify sourcing opportunities and develop category strategies.
• Identify, qualify, onboard new suppliers and monitor performance with KPIs and reviews.
• Lead supplier relationship management and ensure compliance with contracts.
• Coordinate with operations, planning, quality, and finance to align purchasing with production needs.
• Monitor supplier cost, delivery, lead times, and quality; take corrective actions as needed.
• Manage annual spend across commodities and portfolios; contribute to budgeting and forecasting.
• Operate with autonomy under guidelines and use data-driven analysis for procurement decisions.
• Escalate complex issues to management with well-supported recommendations.

Skills

Negotiation

Analytical

Vendor management

Cost control

Cross-functional

Communication

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain or related field

Tools

ERP systems

MS Office

Job description

NTN Bearing Corporation in Columbus, Indiana, is seeking an Indirect/Direct Buyer to source indirect materials and services, including MRO supplies, tooling, capital equipment, and facility-related needs, ensuring uninterrupted plant operations.

The ideal candidate will have experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and a strong understanding of indirect procurement, supplier management, and cost control.