Title: Senior Buyer

Location: Whitehall, MI

Duration: Full-time

Work Requirements: US Citizen, GC Holders, or Authorized to Work in the US-This role is subject to ITAR regulations and requires U.S. person status

Summary

This Senior Buyer will support plant operations by owning day-to-day procurement activities and executing sourcing strategies that keep production moving. The focus is on securing supply, driving cost savings, managing suppliers, and ensuring purchasing processes stay compliant. This is a hands-on, plant-facing role that works closely with Operations, Engineering, Quality, and Finance to support business unit goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare RFQs and RFPs based on plant and production needs
• Review supplier quotes and perform cost and value analysis (price, lead time, quality, capability)
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and lead times aligned with plant goals
• Issue and manage purchase orders to support production, operations, and inventory
• Maintain accurate PO details including pricing, account codes, and supplier promise dates
• Resolve invoice holds by coordinating with suppliers and internal teams
• Partner with Receiving to reconcile shipping and supplier documentation
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, AP, and Facilities to resolve plant issues
• Support supplier onboarding and new item setup
• Ensure compliance with procurement procedures, audits, and internal controls
• Regularly engage on the shop floor to understand operational needs and constraints

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Supply Chain, Engineering, or related field
• 3+ years of experience in Procurement, Supply Chain, or a related function
• Experience supporting manufacturing or plant-based operations
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Comfortable working cross-functionally in a fast-paced environment
• Customer-focused mindset with attention to detail
• ERP experience (Oracle or similar strongly preferred)
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills for reporting, metrics, and analysis

EEO Statement:

Summa provides Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Summa complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment.