Metal Commodity Buyer

Description

Red Dot Corporation, the leading producer of premium mobile HVAC units and components for heavy-duty commercial and military vehicles, is recruiting for the following position: Supply Chain Buyer

*This position will be hybrid after completion of training in office. Three days in office and two remote *

Summary Description:

The Metals Commodity Buyer is responsible for the strategic sourcing and procurement of raw and fabricated metal components. This role involves evaluating and selecting suppliers based on qualifications, cost competitiveness, quality, and reliability. The buyer actively monitors the metals market, tracking price movements and industry trends to make informed purchasing decisions.

A core objective of this position is to ensure the on-time delivery of materials and maintain a smooth, efficient flow of components throughout the production process. Other key responsibilities include executing the tactical supply chain plan, managing inventory and replenishment strategies to maintain optimal stock levels, coordinating closely with suppliers, and proactively mitigating supply chain risks. The Metals Commodity Buyer also plays a critical role in Lean and Kaizen initiatives focused on inventory management, supply chain process improvements, and material flow optimization.   

Job Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

•  Analyze market indicators and industry trends for assigned metal commodities to assess price competitiveness, forecast cost impacts, and inform sourcing decisions.
•  Proactively develop and recommend strategic sourcing initiatives based on market intelligence, supply dynamics, cost structures, and risk mitigation strategies.
•  Lead supplier negotiations for pricing, contract terms, and conditions with a focus on achieving cost savings, improving lead times, and ensuring long-term supply stability.
•  Evaluate and enhance procurement practices, policies, and supplier agreements; provide process improvement recommendations that support business goals and Lean initiatives.
•  Manage inventory levels and deploy efficient material replenishment strategies that align with manufacturing requirements and working capital targets.
•  Utilize MRP data to generate purchase orders, maintain accurate scheduling, and ensure product availability in support of production timelines.
•  Monitor and achieve key performance indicators (KPIs), including inventory turns, on-time delivery, and inventory reduction objectives.
•  Serve as a key liaison between suppliers and internal stakeholders. Identify potential supply constraints and collaborate cross-functionally to develop and implement resolution strategies.
•  Support quality assurance efforts by coordinating the return of non-conforming materials and facilitating supplier credits.
•  Manage surplus and obsolete inventory by tracking, reporting, and recommending appropriate disposition actions.
•  Champion and sustain Lean supply programs such as VMI (Vendor-Managed Inventory), Kanban, and Consignment to streamline inventory management.

Level Requirements (Minimum):

Education   

•  Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or a related field is required

Experience

•  Minimum of four (4) years of progressive purchasing experience, with a focus on direct materials procurement.
•  At least two (2) years of experience specifically in metals commodity purchasing is required
•  Advanced user-level experience with MRP (3 years preferred); experience within an ERP/MRP-based manufacturing environment strongly preferred.
•  Demonstrated working knowledge of Lean principles and their application in a supply chain or manufacturing context.
• Solid understanding of commodity markets and the economic and industry trends that influence metal pricing and availability  
•  Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) is required.
•  Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret data for decision-making and supplier negotiations.

Requirements

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

•  Demonstrates professionalism and serves as a positive representative of the company at all times, fostering a solution-oriented, collaborative approach in all interactions.
•  Maintains comprehensive knowledge of company policies, quality procedures, and relevant compliance standards at the local, state, and federal levels.
•  Actively contributes to departmental goals and performance targets; champions and implements new company initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.
•  Provides expert-level internal and supplier support, serving as a subject matter expert in supply chain matters. Proactively identifies issues and recommends strategic solutions to management.
•  Works independently and as part of a cross-functional team with minimal supervision; exercises sound judgment in alignment with company policy and regulatory compliance. Communicates regularly with leadership regarding progress, risks, or deviations from schedule.
•  Continuously seeks process improvements and contributes to Lean, VMI, and Kanban initiatives to drive operational efficiency and reduce waste.
•  Presents a professional demeanor, using clear and respectful verbal and non-verbal communication in all business interactions.
•  Demonstrates strong analytical and problem-solving skills—approaching challenges with curiosity, transparency, and a commitment to root-cause resolution.
•  Possesses excellent communication skills for engaging with both internal stakeholders and external suppliers:
•  Practices active listening and communicates clearly in both written and verbal formats.
•  Maintains composure and professionalism under pressure; adept at de-escalating conflict and promoting constructive dialogue
•  Navigates cross-cultural dynamics with sensitivity and adaptability
•  Thrives in a dynamic environment, balancing multiple priorities while upholding high standards for accuracy, quality, and service. 

Alignment with Company Values – R.I.S.E.

This position exemplifies our R.I.S.E. values:

•  Respect: Engages with others thoughtfully, assumes positive intent, and communicates with care.
•  Integrity: Acts with honesty, follows through on commitments, and solves problems without blame.
•  Service: Puts customer and internal stakeholder needs first, and looks for collaborative, value-driven solutions.
•  Excellence: Maintains a commitment to quality, detail, and continuous improvement.

As a Metals Commodity Buyer, you’re not just managing supply chains—you’re rising to the occasion by delivering excellence, owning your work, and representing the company’s values in every interaction.

Red Dot Corporation offers the following total compensation package for this role:

• Paid Sick Time/Paid Sick and Safe Time.
• Personal Time Off (PTO)
• Average of 14 paid holidays per year.
• Employer sponsored PPO Medical Plans, with employer subsidized premiums of at least 70% for non-tobacco users.
• Employer sponsored PPO Dental Plans dental, with employer subsidized premiums of at least 70% for non-tobacco users.
• Employer sponsored Vision Plans.
• Free Employee Assistance Program to all employees.
• Free Benefit Advocate access for insurance benefit inquiries.
• 401(k) employer contribution of 3% of annual salary*, regardless of participation.
• 100% ESOP Company, with vesting beginning after 1,000 hours.
• Employer Paid Basic Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) premiums.
• Employer Paid Long Term Disability Insurance premiums.
• Employer Paid Washington State FML payroll taxes.
• Voluntary Benefits such as: Flexible Spending Accounts, Daycare Spending Accounts, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability Insurance, etc.

Salary Grade** for this role is as follows:

Min: $78,000/annual

Mid: $80,000/annual

Max: $83,000/annual

*Subject to all local, state and federal regulatory limits

** Salary grade levels and placement are all based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: applicable experience, education, skill set, market.

Red Dot is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Salary : $78,000 - $83,000