Senior Buyer

Description

Position Title: Senior Buyer

Department: Supply Chain

Location: Santa Ana, CA 

FLSA Status: Exempt, Full- Time 

Job Summary: 

The Senior Buyer is responsible for strategically sourcing, negotiating, and procuring materials, components, and services required to support manufacturing operations. This role manages key supplier relationships, leads cost reduction initiatives, and ensures the timely availability of materials to support production requirements.

The Senior Buyer operates with a high level of independence and serves as a subject matter expert within the procurement function. This position plays a key role in improving supplier performance, optimizing procurement strategies, and supporting cross-functional initiatives such as new product introductions and supply chain continuous improvement. The Senior Buyer may also provide guidance and mentorship to junior procurement staff.

Key Responsibilities: 

Strategic Procurement

· Lead sourcing and procurement activities for raw materials, components, and services required for manufacturing operations.

· Manage the full procurement lifecycle from supplier identification and qualification through purchase order execution and delivery oversight.

· Develop sourcing strategies to ensure supply continuity, cost efficiency, and quality performance.

· Evaluate supplier capabilities and support supplier selection decisions.

Supplier Management

· Manage and maintain strong relationships with strategic and high-impact suppliers.

· Conduct supplier performance reviews related to cost, quality, delivery, and responsiveness.

· Identify, qualify, and onboard new suppliers to support cost reduction, supply continuity, and risk mitigation.

· Lead the resolution of supplier-related delivery, quality, or pricing issues.

Cost Control & Negotiation

· Lead price negotiations, long-term agreements, and commercial terms with suppliers.

· Analyze supplier cost structures and market trends to identify cost reduction opportunities.

· Drive cost savings initiatives and support overall supply chain cost management strategies.

Inventory & Supply Planning

· Collaborate with production planning and inventory teams to ensure consistent material availability.

· Monitor supply risks and proactively implement mitigation strategies.

· Support inventory optimization initiatives to reduce excess and obsolete inventory while maintaining service levels.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

· Partner closely with the proposals teams to support RFQ's and RFP's.

· Collaborate with quality, operations, and production planning teams to improve supplier performance and material flow.

· Provide mentorship and guidance to Junior Buyers and Buyers when appropriate.

Data, Analysis & Reporting

· Maintain accurate purchasing and supplier data within ERP systems.

· Analyze purchasing trends, supplier metrics, and procurement performance.

· Prepare reports and analysis to support supply chain strategy and operational decision-making.

Qualifications: 

· Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field (preferred).

· Typically 7–10 years of purchasing or supply chain experience, preferably within a manufacturing environment.

· Strong experience with ERP/MRP systems and procurement processes.

· Experience in the aerospace/defense EMS environment

· Demonstrated experience leading supplier negotiations and managing strategic supplier relationships.

Skills and Abilities: 

· Advanced negotiation and supplier relationship management skills

· Strong analytical and cost analysis capabilities

· Ability to manage complex supplier relationships and sourcing initiatives

· Strong understanding of manufacturing supply chains, procurement strategy, and inventory management

· Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

· Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems

Physical Requirements: 

· Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer and using standard office equipment.

· Ability to occasionally stand, walk, and move between office and manufacturing areas.

· Ability to occasionally lift and carry items up to 15–20 pounds.

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This job description is intended to provide a clear overview of the primary duties and responsibilities for the Senior Buyer position. It is not an exhaustive list, and other tasks may be required as needed to support the company’s operations.

Regal Technology Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We strive to create an inclusive and diverse work environment where everyone is valued and respected.

If you require any accommodation during the application process or have any questions regarding our EEO policies, please contact Human Resources, hr@regaltechnology.com