Senior MRO Buyer at Silfab Solar

Job SummaryWe are seeking a strategic MRO and CAPEX Buyer to join our leading solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing team in the U.S. This role will oversee end-to-end procurement for both Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MR&O) materials and Capital Expenditures (CAPEX) related to solar PV production equipment and facility upgrades. You will play a critical role in optimizing supply chains managing vendor relationships and ensuring cost-effective acquisition of both operational maintenance items and long-term capital assets across our two U.S. manufacturing sites.Essential Duties and Responsibilities 1. MR&O Procurement (Core Focus)Source evaluate and manage suppliers for MRO materials (e.g. equipment spare parts maintenance tools safety supplies lubricants electrical components) specific to solar PV manufacturing equipment (e.g. wafer saws thin-film deposition systems testing machines).Negotiate pricing contracts and delivery terms to achieve cost savings and secure reliable supply chains for day-to-day maintenance needs.Analyze historical usage data with maintenance teams to forecast demand optimize inventory levels and prevent production downtime.Ensure compliance with safety standards (OSHA NFPA) environmental regulations (EPA) and industry quality requirements (IEC standards).Drive PR to PO process optimization activity2. CAPEX Procurement (Expanded Role)Lead the procurement of capital assets including new production equipment facility upgrades and technology systems (e.g. solar panel assembly lines automation systems energy storage solutions).Collaborate with engineering operations and finance teams to define CAPEX requirements develop RFPs/RFQs and evaluate vendor proposals for large-scale purchases.Negotiate long-term contracts lease agreements or financing options for CAPEX projects ensuring alignment with budgetary constraints and ROI objectives.Manage vendor performance for CAPEX projects including installation timelines warranty terms and post-purchase support.3. Cross-Functional CollaborationPartner with maintenance engineering and finance teams to prioritize both urgent MR&O needs and strategic CAPEX initiatives.Coordinate with logistics and legal teams to manage customs clearance installation logistics and contract compliance for imported equipment or materials.Provide regular updates to leadership on procurement progress cost variances and risk mitigation strategies for both MR&O and CAPEX spend.4. Cost Optimization & ComplianceIdentify opportunities to consolidate suppliers for both MR&O and CAPEX categories leveraging volume discounts and standardized contracts.Ensure all procurement activities adhere to company policies accounting standards (e.g. GAAP) and regulatory requirements (e.g. ITAR EAR for imported equipment).Prepare performance reports on cost savings on-time delivery rates and asset utilization for both operational and capital purchases.Qualifications : Skills Expertise in both operational procurement (MRO) and capital asset acquisition with knowledge of solar PV manufacturing equipment (e.g. cell production lines testing facilities).Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g. SAP Oracle) and procurement tools (e.g. Ariba Coupa) for inventory and CAPEX tracking.Strong financial acumen to evaluate CAPEX proposals ROI models and depreciation strategies.Exceptional negotiation skills and the ability to manage complex vendor relationships across multiple categories.Traits Strategic mindset with the ability to balance short-term maintenance needs with long-term capital investment goals.Detail-oriented with advanced problem-solving skills for resolving supply chain disruptions or contractual issues.Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities in a fast-growing renewable energy environment.Education and/or Experience Bachelors degree in Supply Chain Management Engineering Business or a related field.5 years of combined experience in MR&O and CAPEX procurement preferably in manufacturing (solar PV semiconductor or heavy industrial sectors strongly preferred).Proven track record in managing high-value CAPEX projects ($500K) including vendor selection contract negotiation and project coordination.Additional Information : Compensation and BenefitsPaid Time Off (vacation sick and holiday) 401(k) Retirement PlanMedical/Dental/Vision Insurance PlansHealth Savings Account optionSupplemental/Voluntary Insurance PlansEmployee Assistance ProgramTuition Reimbursement Program Employee Recognition ProgramsEmployee PV Panel Purchase ProgramRemote Work : NoEmployment Type : Full-time Key Skills Purchasing,Sourcing,Procurement,HR Sourcing,SAP,Supply Chain Experience,ERP Systems,negotiation,Materials Management,Manufacturing,MRP,Contracts Department / Functional Area: Supply Chain Experience: years Vacancy: 1