Buyer/Purchasing Specialist

About Allied Plastics

Seventy-five years of manufacturing expertise drives new product development and informs continuous process improvement. Addressing current trends and anticipating future needs, we take pride in introducing new feature-rich designs for STEM, classroom, administration, seating, storage and more.

About the role

The Buyer / Purchasing Specialist is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing materials, components, equipment, and services in support of production requirements. This role plays a key part in maintaining inventory levels, optimizing cost, and ensuring timely delivery from suppliers while supporting continuous improvement in the supply chain.

What you'll do

• Source and purchase materials according to engineering specifications and production schedules.
• Create and issue Purchase Orders in NetSuite, track deliveries, and manage supplier performance.
• Review and act on MRP recommendations to ensure timely procurement aligned with production needs.
• Monitor material availability and collaborate with Production Control to adjust POs based on changes in demand or lead times.
• Proactively follow up on open POs to ensure on-time deliveries and immediately escalate delays that impact production.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions with suppliers to obtain best value and improve lead times.
• Evaluate and select suppliers based on quality, cost, delivery performance, and service capabilities.
• Resolve issues related to shortages, pricing discrepancies, delivery delays, and supplier performance.
• Support inventory management and cycle count processes; reconcile discrepancies with production.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvement.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Critical materials arrive on time to support uninterrupted production.
• Supplier performance improves through consistent follow-up and accountability.
• Inventory stays balanced — avoiding both shortages and excessive overstock.
• NetSuite purchasing workflow is accurate, organized, and disciplined.

Qualifications

• Proficient with ERP systems; NetSuite experience is a strong plus (especially purchasing, inventory, and vendor modules).
• Experience with international vendors, including tracking overseas shipments / container deliveries.
• Experience working with MRP systems and interpreting MRP output for purchasing decisions.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on accuracy, follow-through, and continuous improvement.

Education & Experience

High School Diploma / GED required

3+ years' experience in procurement / buying in a manufacturing environment (preferred)

The pay range for this role is:

52,000 - 62,000 USD per year (Jacksonville, FL)