A growing precision manufacturer is seeking a technically minded Subcontract Buyer to lead purchasing for machined and fabricated components that support complex engineered systems. This role owns the day to day coordination with a network of outside machine shops, fabricators, coaters, and test labs to ensure parts are sourced correctly, on time, and at the right cost. It is an excellent opportunity for a buyer or estimator who enjoys working from engineering drawings, partnering closely with engineering and operations, and developing strong supplier relationships in a regulated manufacturing environment.

Subcontract Buyer What You Will Do

• Translate engineering drawings and bills of material into clear outsourced work packages for machining, waterjet cutting, welding, coating, and testing
• Identify which parts are best suited for each subcontractor based on size, capability, lead time, and cost
• Request, compare, and negotiate quotes from approximately twelve key suppliers and issue purchase orders for awarded work
• Coordinate outside processes including powder coating, cutting, welding, met lab testing, and related services to support project schedules
• Track open orders, expedite critical items, and resolve issues related to quality, delivery, or pricing with suppliers
• Maintain accurate purchasing data in the company ERP or MRP system and support budgeting and cost improvement efforts
• Partner with engineering, production, and quality to understand upcoming projects and capacity needs
• Develop new vendors to strengthen the supply base and reduce risk on critical processes and materials

Subcontract Buyer What You Bring

• Three to seven years of experience in buying, sourcing, or estimating in a machining, fabrication, or metal manufacturing environment
• Strong ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, tolerances, and basic machining and fabrication processes
• Direct experience working with outside machine shops, waterjet or laser cutting, welding, coatings, and test labs
• Comfort managing quotes, comparing pricing, and negotiating terms with multiple suppliers
• Experience using an ERP or MRP system to manage purchase orders, deliveries, and inventory related data
• Clear and professional communication skills when working with engineering, operations, and external vendors
• Stable career history with limited job hopping and a track record of building long term supplier relationships

Subcontract Buyer Compensation and Opportunity

• Strong benefits package through a stable and growing employer in a specialized technical niche
• Chance to work closely with experienced engineers, machinists, and quality professionals on complex engineered systems
• Significant impact on supplier strategy, cost, and delivery performance with room to grow as the company expands
• Relocation support may be considered for an exceptional fit