Buyer/Planner

Job Description Position Purpose: Purchasing professional executes the strategic purchasing activities for assigned commodities, projects, and new product development programs to support cost, quality, delivery and overall business objectives. Works cross-functionally to manage supplier related opportunities and threats. With guidance from purchasing leadership, the Buyer/Planner I develops and implements optimal supply chain solutions to support operational and program needs. Essential Functions: * Supply Chain * Material procurement and communication with assigned suppliers or commodities * Assist in capacity planning including evaluating material stock levels, maintaining supplier capabilities to Hendrickson current and future demand * Monitor supplier performance ensuring an uninterrupted supply of materials to production facilities through strategic management of the supply base * Monitor and communicate performance metrics to suppliers on an on-going and regular basis. * Manage ERP system, updating system inputs for each responsible component * Commercial * Maintains pricing agreements for all assigned purchased material and resolves any invoice discrepancies in a timely manner * Monitor and account for all fluctuations in purchase price variance (PPV) for assigned purchased material * Maintains monthly data reporting as assigned. * Technical Specifications * Completes all purchasing tasks involved with the engineering change request process (e.g. RFQ, negotiation of costs and timing, supplier PPAP, etc.) * Conduct Advanced Quality Planning (AQP) meetings between Hendrickson and responsible suppliers. * Completes product deviations as necessary. * Clearly documents relevant information about assigned parts and suppliers per department documentation guidelines * Strategy Development * Identifies and leverages opportunities by developing and managing contractual relationships as needed * Tracks and communicates cross-functional programs, product changes, and cost savings initiatives to ensure alignment and visibility of supply chain impacts * Foster multi-departmental relationship(s) between Hendrickson Vehicle Technology Group and key suppliers * Monitor the marketplace for assigned commodities to identify trends, technology advancements, risk mitigation strategies, and cost-efficient alternatives * Completes risk mitigation projects and other duties as assigned Education and Training * Bachelor's degree in a business or engineering concentrated field is a plus. * Professional designations or Certifications by recognized Purchasing organizations preferred. Minimum Qualifications * One year of experience in Purchasing or Materials * Demonstrated negotiation success preferred * Competence with Microsoft Office software required * Familiar with and working experience in an IATF-16949 or other Quality regulated manufacturing environment preferred * Planning and organizational skills with an ability to handle a multitude of projects * Ability to travel as needed