Senior Buyer Jobs

ABOUT POET

At POET, it is our mission to be good stewards of the Earth by converting renewable resources to energy and other valuable goods as effectively as humanly possible. For over thirty years our drive and passion to change the world has enabled us to become the largest producer and marketer of bioethanol and leader in bio-based products in the world. Beyond our world-class culture, POET team members enjoy competitive pay and benefits including;

• Competitive pay, including shift premium pay for qualifying positions
• Safety and cold weather gear reimbursements
• Excellent work-life balance with a 'family-first' culture
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Individual and family plans for health, dental, & vision insurance, including a generous employer Health Savings Account contribution
• 401K with company match
• Attractive Relocation Assistance and Bonus Programs for qualifying positions and/or locations
• Quarterly Profit-Sharing Bonuses, and Bi-Annual Incentive Bonuses
• Paid Parental Leave
• Onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements
• Tuition reimbursement
• Discounted home and auto insurance
• A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person - mentally, physically, and spiritually

JOB SUMMARY

As a Senior Buyer you will be responsible for developing and executing the organization’s sourcing and procurement strategy of the services category. You will maintain vendor relationships, negotiate the best value for POET, perform strategic analysis and decision-making, and ensure appropriate risk management through execution. 

DURING A TYPICAL DAY

• Define, develop, negotiate and contract solutions that meet business requirements and enhance profitability by controlling/reducing costs, improving payment terms, reducing inventory and optimizing supply chain efficiencies.
• Evaluate sourcing risks (key materials and components) and develop alternative plans to ensure supply goals are met.
• Since we’re all about teamwork and getting the job done, your skill may be put to a lot of other uses!
• Collaborate with the bioprocessing facilities and EPC technical staff to ensure specifications and quality expectations continue to be met.
• Partner with other procurement staff to ensure accurate and timely delivery with excellent customer service to our bioprocessing facilities and construction projects.
• Review and analyze records of items purchased, costs, delivery, product performance, and inventories to drive continuous improvement.
• Manage performance and relationships of key strategic suppliers. Evaluate and monitor contract performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations.
• Lead supplier sourcing/selection activities through cross-functional sourcing teams. Research and evaluate suppliers based on price, quality, service, support, reliability, production and distribution capabilities.
• Monitor and initiate improvement projects to current processes or policies.

STRENGTHS OF A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

• Great interpersonal skills, possessing a high degree of professionalism and customer service.
• Eager to learn and change the world.
• Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic and changing environment.
• Comfortable with extensive contract review.
• Honest, ethical, and conscientious.
• You know the basics of Microsoft Office Suite. You’re capable of learning new programs.
• Paralegal background is helpful.
• Degree in Business or technical field and 5 to 8 years of related procurement experience, preferably in a related industry; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong strategic and analytical skills to include complex analysis.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills as well as the ability to adapt to change.
• P.M. certification preferred but not required.
• Demonstrated leadership, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.

GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN POET

At POET we believe in recognizing team member contributions as they add value to the organization. Team member skills and contributions are frequently assessed and recognized through incentives and title progression. New team member titles and pay are determined considering their qualifications.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Working at a personal computer for approximately 90% of the time where you can sit or stand.
• Up to 30% travel required which may include vendor visits, continuing education, and conferences.
• Culture is king at POET. We’re all on the same team. We always communicate. And we park our egos at the door. These aren’t just slogans on our walls. It’s our code.
• Occasionally lifting weights of fifty (50) pounds or less.
• This position operates in an office environment. Specific physical requirements may include:
  • Working at a personal computer for approximately 90% of the time where you can sit or stand.
  • Occasionally lifting weights of fifty (50) pounds or less.