Buyer/Strategic Sourcing Specialist (Manufacturing)

HTI has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Buyer/Strategic Sourcing Specialist with a large international manufacturing facility in Waynesboro, GA (located just south of Augusta, GA). This is a full-time, direct-hire, onsite, salaried position. The company offers fantastic benefits and opportunities for growth. The salary range is approximately $75,000 - $95,000 / year, depending on experience level. *Please note, applicants must have recent supplier sourcing and purchasing experience in the manufacturing industry. Requirements: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or Business Management. 4+ years of recent purchasing and supplier sourcing experience in the manufacturing industry , with previous responsibility for the job duties listed below. Experience sourcing and purchasing fabricated metal parts and electrical/wiring components. Proficiency in market/supplier research and sourcing of new vendors. Strong negotiation skills. Proficiency in analyzing supplier proposals and market trends. Proficiency in ERP systems/procurement software and Microsoft Office suite. Professional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers. Must be self-motivated and able to work independently. Ability to travel approximately 15-25% to attend industry trade shows and events to identify and source new suppliers, as well as to visit vendor locations. Local candidates who are able to commute to the Waynesboro plant location are preferred. Must be authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship, both now and in the future. Job Duties: Identify potential suppliers through market research and evaluation, considering factors such as cost, quality, reliability, and delivery capabilities. Conduct negotiations with suppliers to secure favorable terms, pricing, and contracts while ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Analyze supplier proposals, pricing structures, and total cost of ownership to make informed sourcing decisions that optimize cost efficiency. Create, edit, and issue RFQ/RFP's. Review, negotiate, and manage supplier contracts, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Create and issue Purchase Orders (PO's). Maintain relationships with key suppliers, monitor performance, and resolve issues. Ensure that materials meet established quality standards and specifications. Keep up to date with industry trends, raw material costs, and supply chain best practices. Stay updated on market conditions and emerging technologies to make informed sourcing recommendations. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement sourcing strategies that align with organizational objectives. Identify potential risks in the supply chain and develop risk mitigation plans to ensure continuity of supply. Continuously seek opportunities to reduce costs through negotiation, process improvement, and supplier optimization. Maintain a safe working environment and adhere to plant safety requirements and policies. Adhere to all current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) requirements. This position will require occasional travel (15-25%) to visit vendor locations and attend industry trade shows to identify and source new suppliers. All other job duties as assigned. Benefits include: Medical, dental and vision coverage 401K with 5% employer match 3 weeks of PTO/Vacation per year #INDPRO Employment Type: Full Time Years Experience: 3 - 5 years Bonus/Commission: No