Scrap Buyer
Chicago, IL, United States
- Manufacturing
- Full-time
- scrap metal buyer
- procurement specialist
- ferrous scrap
The Scrap Buyer is responsible for sourcing and purchasing ferrous and non-ferrous scrap metals while maintaining supplier relationships and negotiating favorable terms to support recycling operations. The role includes evaluating material grades according to ISRI standards, monitoring market trends, and collaborating with operations and logistics to align procurement with processing capacity. The position requires strong negotiation skills, industry knowledge, and experience in scrap metal procurement.
Scrap Metal Buyer / Procurement Specialist
Summary
An established recycling company is seeking a Scrap Metal Buyer focused on procurement and sourcing. The role centers on purchasing ferrous and non-ferrous scrap, building supplier relationships, and negotiating competitive pricing to support operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Source and purchase ferrous and non-ferrous scrap from suppliers, industrial accounts, and contractors
- Evaluate material grades and specifications to ensure accuracy and compliance with ISRI standards
- Negotiate pricing, freight terms, and contract details with suppliers to protect margins
- Develop and maintain long-term supplier relationships, ensuring reliable and consistent supply
- Monitor markets, LME/Comex trends, and mill/export demand to guide buying decisions
- Collaborate with operations and logistics teams to align procurement with yard capacity and processing schedules
- Track and document purchases, contracts, and vendor communications accurately
- Ensure all transactions meet company standards for safety, compliance, and ethics
Qualifications
- 3+ years of scrap metal purchasing or related procurement experience
- Strong knowledge of ferrous and non-ferrous grades, ISRI specifications, and market drivers
- Proven negotiation skills with a profit-focused approach
- Established supplier network in the scrap industry preferred
- Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to adapt quickly to market volatility and changing supplier dynamics




