What are the responsibilities and job description for the Buyer position at deSter?
Job Title: Buyer – Customer Service Operations
Reports To: Manager, Customer Service Operations
Location: Lima, OH
Job Summary
We’re looking for a detail-oriented and collaborative Buyer to join our Customer Service Operations team. In this role, you’ll support the purchasing of products and supplies based on airline specifications and approved vendor lists. You’ll help manage inventory levels, monitor financial targets, and coordinate timely deliveries to ensure smooth daily operations. You’ll also play a key role in identifying purchasing requirements and validating key data with internal teams.
This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys problem-solving, working cross-functionally, and contributing to an efficient, high-quality supply chain process.
Key Responsibilities
- Use SAP (or current ERP system) to determine required materials based on Bills of Materials (BOMs) and production plans
- Analyze trends and forecast demand to purchase accurate quantities and minimize waste or shortages
- Monitor inventory usage, waste, and stock discrepancies to ensure product quality and availability
- Support units in managing daily material requisitions and updating them based on forecasting or BOM changes
- Audit purchase requisitions and purchase orders for accuracy and completeness
- Ensure inventory records are current and accurate for all responsible units
- Follow purchasing policies, monitor vendor performance, and address product shortages or changes
- Ensure compliance with regional and corporate policies, including product specifications and quality standards
- Track and report on product substitutions and related cost impacts
- Collaborate with suppliers, internal teams, and customers while maintaining a professional and respectful working relationship
- Participate in monthly inventory processes and cost management tasks
- Contribute to special projects and continuous improvement initiatives
What You Bring
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- College degree in supply chain, business, or related field preferred
- 1–2 years of purchasing or procurement experience
- Experience with quality control programs is a plus
Skills & Abilities
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Clear communication skills – both written and verbal
- Comfortable working independently and across teams
- Knowledge of FDA/USDA regulations is an asset
- Multi-lingual communication skills are a bonus
Why Join Us?
We’re committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace. We value collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. If you're someone who enjoys working in a dynamic environment and making a tangible impact, we’d love to meet you.