Technical Buyer: Machining & Fabrication for Automation

JR Automation; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Medical benefits from day one

Parental leave

Unique automation projects

Career growth

Job summary

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is seeking a Machine & Fabrication Technical Buyer in Nashville, TN or Holland, MI to guide sourcing decisions and mentor teams on machining and fabrication solutions.

Ideal candidates bring 3+ years in manufacturing or automation projects, strong machining knowledge, and ERP proficiency (Epicor preferred). Expect travel up to 10% and collaboration across engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required; manufacturing or fabrication experience desirable.
• Strong knowledge of machining and fabrication processes such as machining, welding, sheet metal, and structural fabrication.
• Minimum of 3+ years 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 Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word for technical analysis, reporting, and communication.

Responsibilities

• Act as a technical SME in machining and fabrication, guiding part design, manufacturing methods, supplier capabilities, and feasibility, and advising on cost, quality, and delivery impacts.
• Evaluate and continuously improve the preferred machining and fabrication supplier base based on 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.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to align on timelines, supplier constraints, delivery schedules, and technical requirements.
• 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 sourcing strategies deliver optimal technical value.

Skills

Machining & fabrication

ERP systems

Excel

PowerPoint

Communication

Travel up to 10%

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

Epicor ERP

Job description

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is seeking a Machine & Fabrication Technical Buyer in Nashville, TN or Holland, MI to guide sourcing decisions and mentor teams on machining and fabrication solutions.

Ideal candidates bring 3+ years in manufacturing or automation projects, strong machining knowledge, and ERP proficiency (Epicor preferred). Expect travel up to 10% and collaboration across engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain.