JOB TITLE: MANUFACTURING PURCHASER
LOCATION: US
JOB TYPE: FULL-TIME
REPORTS TO: SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGER
DEPARTMENT: SUPPLY CHAIN
Join the Geismar North America Team
At Geismar North America, we are proud to be a global leader in railway equipment innovation—right here in Beaufort, South Carolina. For more than 100 years, the Geismar name has stood for precision, reliability, and engineering excellence. Our team is driven by a shared commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement, and we’re looking for talented individuals who want to grow their careers with a company that values expertise, teamwork, and integrity.
Position Summary
The Manufacturing Purchaser is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring materials, components, and services required for the production of Geismar North America equipment. This role ensures the continuity of supply, cost effectiveness, and quality compliance, while aligning purchasing strategies with production goals. The Manufacturing Purchaser will collaborate closely with Engineering, Production, Project Management, and Quality to ensure optimal supplier performance and inventory management.
Key Responsibilities
1. Procurement & Sourcing
· Lead the end-to-end procurement process for raw materials, fabricated parts, and specialized equipment used in the manufacturing of railroad service equipment.
· Identify and develop strategic supplier relationships, including domestic and international vendors.
· Evaluate and negotiate pricing, lead times, payment terms, and contract terms to ensure optimal cost and value.
· Collaborate with the Engineering department to ensure purchased materials meet technical specifications.
2. Supplier & Vendor Management
· Serve as the primary point of contact for key suppliers and manage supplier performance metrics including on-time delivery, quality, and responsiveness.
· Develop, manage, and strengthen strategic relationships with suppliers to ensure consistent quality, cost efficiency, and delivery performance.
· Evaluate and select suppliers based on capability, capacity, cost, quality, and service criteria through sourcing processes.
· Maintain comprehensive supplier documentation, including certifications, compliance records, audit results, and contracts.
3. Inventory & Production Support
· Maintain proper inventory levels through the ERP system to support production schedules without overstocking.
· Work closely with Production management to ensure materials are available to meet build schedules.
· Resolve supply issues that may impact production timeline.
4. Cost Control & Budgeting
· Continuously monitor market trends and material pricing to anticipate cost fluctuations and mitigate risks.
· Support annual budgeting efforts by forecasting purchasing costs and contributing to cost-reduction initiatives.
· Identify and execute cost-saving opportunities, including make-versus-buy analyses.
5. Documentation & Compliance
· Maintain accurate procurement records, including POs, supplier contracts, quality documentation, and delivery records.
· Ensure all purchasing activities are in compliance with internal policies and procedures and external regulations.
· Support ISO, safety, and industry specific compliance initiatives.
Qualifications
Education
· Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Industrial Engineering, or related field required.
Experience
· 2+ years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment required; experience with heavy equipment or transportation/rail equipment is preferred.
· Experience working with ERP/MRP systems (M3, SAP, Oracle).
· Proven track record for vendor negotiations, supplier management, and cost savings.
Skills and Competencies
· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
· Negotiation and contract management abilities.
· Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
· Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work cross-functionally.
· High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
At Geismar North America, you’re not just joining a company—you’re joining a team that empowers you to make an impact every day. If you’re looking for a place where your skills are valued, your growth is supported, and your work truly matters, we invite you to explore our open opportunities.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $22.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) 6% Match
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- Manufacturing Purchasing: 3 years (Required)
- Heavy Equipment Manufacturing: 2 years (Preferred)
- Purchasing: 5 years (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Beaufort, SC 29906 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Beaufort, SC 29906: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
