Buyer / Outside Processing Coordinator

Company Overview

Established in 1959 near Chicago, Prince Industries has evolved from a single-person operation into a global manufacturing partner. Operating seven facilities across the U.S. and China, the company serves a diverse range of industries including hydraulics and aerospace. Prince Industries specializes in solving complex supply chain challenges by delivering high-quality, innovative solutions certified to ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485, and AS9100 standards.

Job Summary

The Buyer / Outside Processing (OSP) Coordinator plays a pivotal role in acquiring materials and services essential for production operations, with particular focus on managing Outside Processing activities such as plating, heat treating, machining, grinding, painting, and specialty processes. This position ensures purchased products and subcontracted services meet cost, quality, and delivery standards while maintaining accurate records and effective communication with suppliers and internal teams.

Responsibilities

• Procure materials, components, and services aligned with production schedules and customer requirements.
• Manage and coordinate all activities related to outside processing vendors and subcontracted services.
• Verify part numbers, revisions, specifications, and quantity requirements as per engineering and production directives.
• Convey detailed OSP requirements to suppliers, including technical drawings, certifications, packaging, and return logistics.
• Evaluate supplier quotes for price, lead times, and reliability; negotiate terms accordingly.
• Create and update purchase orders and change notices in the ERP system.
• Monitor the supply chain to ensure timely return of OSP parts, supporting uninterrupted production.
• Collaborate with scheduling, production, and shipping teams to prioritize and meet delivery commitments.
• Coordinate with production schedulers on potential vendor lead-time issues or delivery risks.
• Expedite purchase orders as needed to maintain on-time delivery standards.
• Maintain approved supplier lists; assist in supplier audits and evaluations as necessary.
• Support material review board (MRB), nonconformance, and rework procedures involving OSP vendors.
• Track and report supplier On-Time Delivery (OTD) performance in line with quality standards.
• Provide a liaison point for suppliers regarding purchasing queries.
• Undertake additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills

• Strong skills in negotiation, cost analysis, and supplier evaluation.
• Capability to interpret and apply technical drawings, specifications, and engineering documents.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems along with proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Word.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively across teams.
• Strong organizational ability to handle multiple priorities with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective time management to ensure completion of tasks and urgent requests.

Education and Experience

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or related discipline preferred.
• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in purchasing or procurement within a manufacturing setting.
• Prior experience coordinating outside processing or subcontracted services is highly desirable.
• Background in a manufacturing environment is preferred.

Physical and Work Conditions

• Ability to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, reach, and bend frequently during a typical 9-hour workday.
• Capability to perform repetitive hand movements related to computer and paperwork tasks.

Benefits

• Paid vacation and holidays totaling 9 days annually.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Short and long-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) plan with substantial employer matching.
• Employer-paid life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.
• Full tuition reimbursement for job-related courses.
• Reimbursement for personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Benefits package is influenced by job position, location, and tenure with the company.

Additional Information

Due to ITAR regulations, only U.S. persons, including citizens, lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders), and U.S. nationals, are eligible for this role. Prince Industries is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer dedicated to fair and unbiased hiring practices.