Purchasing Manager Jobs in Laurens,IA,US

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Purchasing Manager to lead procurement operations for our machine shop, specializing in the manufacturing of hydraulic cylinders. This role oversees the full purchasing cycle-including supplier management, contract negotiation, and material planning-to ensure the efficient and cost-effective flow of materials that support production. The Purchasing Manager also provides leadership to a small team of buyers and collaborates closely with production, engineering, and quality teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and mentor a team of buyers, setting clear expectations and managing performance
• Assign and coordinate purchasing activities, monitor workloads, and support training and development
• Promote a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement
• Source and purchase raw materials, components, and services for hydraulic cylinder production
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and long-term agreements with suppliers
• Build and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure quality, reliability, and on-time delivery
• Monitor market trends, supplier performance, and cost-saving opportunities
• Partner with production and engineering to forecast material requirements and prevent shortages or excess inventory
• Ensure purchased materials meet quality, specification, and compliance requirements
• Resolve supplier issues related to delivery, quality, or pricing
• Collaborate with accounting on purchase orders, invoicing accuracy, and cost tracking
• Implement and maintain purchasing policies, procedures, and best practices
• Track and report KPIs tied to supplier performance, inventory levels, and cost reduction
• Provide regular updates to management on purchasing activities and supply chain risks

Qualifications

• Strong negotiation, communication, and vendor management abilities
• Experience in machining, hydraulic cylinder manufacturing, or heavy equipment industries preferred
• Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office
• Strong problem-solving skills and comfort working in a fast-paced environment

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
• 5+ years of purchasing or supply chain experience in a manufacturing or machining setting
• 2+ years of leadership experience supervising purchasing staff

Additional Requirements

• Ability to read and interpret instructions, blueprints, and correspondence
• Basic math skills, including calculating percentages and rates
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and adapt to change
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
• Must wear appropriate PPE when in production areas

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Relocation assistance
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s)

• Will you now or at any time in the future require employment visa sponsorship (e.g., H-1B or other work authorization sponsorship) to work for this employer?

Ability to Relocate

• Laurens, IA 50554: Relocate before starting work (Required)