Clifford North America
Job Description
Title: Technical Buyer
Date: 9 July 2026
Background
Clifford is an international machine builder with over 57 years of experience in automation and resistance welding systems. We are the global leader in automated grating welding machines with offices in Canton, Ohio; Rockford, Illinois; Pietermaritzburg, South Africa; Dubai; and the United Kingdom. We design, manufacture, install and support automated machinery and auxiliary equipment for the grating and mesh industries.
Position Summary
As a Technical Buyer, you will be responsible for procuring machined, fabricated, electrical and commercial components required for the manufacture of custom automated machinery, as well as replacement parts for machines installed worldwide. You will manage the purchasing process from RFQ through on-time delivery while working closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Project Management and suppliers. Clifford currently uses QuickBooks for purchasing and will transition to the Syspro ERP/MRP system end of 2026.
Key Responsibilities
· Review engineering drawings, bills of materials (BOMs) and specifications.
· Prepare RFQs, evaluate quotations and negotiate pricing, lead times and commercial terms.
· Issue purchase orders and monitor supplier performance.
· Develop and maintain relationships with machining, fabrication, electrical and component suppliers.
· Expedite critical orders to support production schedules.
· Work with Engineering to resolve technical questions and specification changes.
· Support inventory accuracy and Kanban replenishment.
· Maintain accurate purchasing records within the ERP/MRP system.
· Identify opportunities for cost reduction, lead-time improvement and supplier quality improvement.
Qualifications & Experience
· Minimum 3 years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing or machine-building environment.
· Ability to read mechanical drawings, BOMs and technical specifications.
· Working knowledge of CNC machining, fabrication, welding and manufacturing processes.
· Experience with ERP/MRP systems (Syspro, SAP, Epicor, Microsoft Dynamics or similar preferred).
· Proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook.
· Excellent communication, negotiation and organizational skills.
· Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritize multiple projects.
Reporting Structure
Reports to the supply Chain lead.
Direct Reports: None.
Performance Measures
· On-time supplier delivery
· Supplier quality
· Cost competitiveness
· Project schedule adherence
· Responsiveness to Engineering
Working Environment
Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, collaborate with cross-functional teams and occasionally assist other business functions as required.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Clifford Machines & Technology is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to any status protected by applicable law.
Pay: From $55,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
