Buyer – SpecialistX3

Job Title: Buyer – Specialist

Location: Houston, TX (Hybrid)
    
Estimated Duration: 24 Months

Job Summary:

We are seeking a skilled and proactive Buyer to join our Supply Chain team, responsible for sourcing goods and services in a cost-effective and timely manner. This role supports purchasing strategy execution, vendor management, and cross-functional coordination across departments and systems. The ideal candidate will have experience with procurement systems (e.g., SAP), strong communication skills, and a keen understanding of procurement processes, market dynamics, and cost-saving opportunities.

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Key Responsibilities:

Procurement & Purchasing

• Source materials and services in line with project strategy, category guidelines, and company procurement policies.

• Issue purchase and release orders in SAP or other systems.

• Initiate and manage RF(x) processes; draft and present commercial bid evaluations.

• Recommend preferred suppliers and cost-saving alternatives to business partners.

• Understand market dynamics (e.g., lead times, shutdowns, price trends) that impact supplier performance and procurement planning.

• Support ongoing deployment of procurement technologies and best practices.

Stakeholder & Supplier Coordination

• Act as key contact between business units, supply chain, warehouse, accounts payable, and suppliers.

• Collaborate with IS/IT to resolve purchasing system issues.

• Resolve goods receipt issues, commercial disputes, and payment or supplier credit issues.

Process Improvement & Compliance

• Identify and implement process improvements and cost-saving opportunities.

• Contribute to the development of procurement policies, tools, and training.

• Support continuous improvement efforts (e.g., SAP enhancements, PO structure optimization, exception management).

• Maintain compliance with tax jurisdictions, Incoterms, and payment terms.

Supplier Management

• Initiate Supplier Qualification Requests (SQRs) as needed.

• Monitor and evaluate supplier performance, maintain contact databases.

• Participate in supplier relationship management initiatives to improve value and performance.

Data Management & Reporting

• Review daily/weekly reports to track productivity and procurement performance.

• Create ad hoc purchasing reports as needed.

• Manage SAP master data requests for vendors, materials, and services.

• Organize and maintain procurement documentation and files.

Team Collaboration

• Participate in team huddles and project meetings; communicate risks and opportunities related to purchasing.

• Provide support and feedback on Procure-to-Pay (P2P) processes to the SC Process team.

• Share procurement lessons learned and best practices with the wider team.

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Qualifications:

Required:

• Proven experience in procurement, supply chain, or purchasing roles.

• Strong working knowledge of SAP or equivalent ERP system.

• Solid understanding of P2P processes and supplier relationship management.

• Ability to analyze cost drivers and provide market-based recommendations.

• Excellent communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills.

• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).

Preferred:

• Knowledge of Incoterms, tax jurisdictions, and global sourcing practices.

• Experience in the energy, utilities, or industrial sectors.

• Familiarity with eCommerce platforms and AML (Approved Manufacturer List) practices.