Buyer at Blueprint Automation

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionCompany Overview: At Blueprint Automation, we design, develop, and manufacture case packers and tray packing solutions for flexible and other tough-to-handle packages such as doypacks, pillow bags, and four-sided sealed bags. Built for around-the-clock operation, these solutions have a worldwide reputation for their quick change-over, flexibility, speed, and comprehensive design. Our Integrated state-of-the-art technologies include gravity, pick and place, wrap-around, and vision-guided robotics.We are absolutely passionate about innovation. It adds fun and inspiration to our work that people need to excel. Our customers stimulate innovation by developing new needs, and we are on a never-ending quest to find a better, simpler way. BPA has no innovation budget. Innovation is what we are.Position:BluePrint Automation is looking for a Buyer to join our team in our South Chesterfield, VA location. Essential Duties & ResponsibilitiesTo perform this job successfully, an individual must satisfactorily perform each essential duty. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential duties.Identifying long-lead and/or “challenging” items to procure against ongoing demand.Evaluate and work closely with production scheduling and aftermarket teams to maintain planning parameters to meet inventory expectations.Evaluate and optimize stocking levels for vendor-managed inventories against ongoing demand. Identify critical value suppliers and negotiate long-term contracts that set out prices, quality standards, cost-reduction targets, delivery timescales, and commercial terms and conditions. Conduct annual reviews against performance metrics and develop plans for improvement if necessary. Partner with suppliers to identify opportunities for better business relationships. Negotiate with key suppliers regarding price, lead time, ordering quantities, shipping terms, and delivery expectations to achieve ongoing cost containment and improvement.Maintain the accuracy of ERP system data (Epicor/Kinetic) to ensure reliable business operations. Find sources and negotiate pricing for new products and resource existing products when needed. Perform other duties as assigned. Education / Experience & Qualifications2 Years (minimum) of industry experience related to procurement. Demonstrated critical thinking, project management, and written and verbal communication skills.Proficient computer skills in MS Office programs.Strong MS- Excel skills for data management and analysis (pivot tables, lookups, filtering, etc.) Strong relationship skills with excellent time management and follow-up skills.Must be self-directed and detail oriented with an inquisitive nature and the desire to solve problems.Strong written and verbal communication skills. Strong work ethic with a positive, “can-do" attitudeAt this time, BPA will not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization for this position.BPA prides itself on the quality of its employees and as such, candidates who receive an employment offer will be required to pass a drug screen and background check successfully.BPA offers an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that provides a fulfilling workplace for employees, creates an environment for continuous learning, and embraces the ideas and diversity of others. In addition, we offer a robust benefits package including a majority employer-paid employee health, dental, vision, life, and disability; 20 days of PTO during the first year of employment, as well as 401(k) with a 6% match. BPA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans.