Technical Buyer

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IMA Group is a global leader in the development and production of automatic machines for the processing and packaging of pharmaceutical, cosmetics, food, tea and coffee products. We are constantly oriented towards innovation, thanks to significant investments in R&D and a constant dialogue with customers, the territory and local suppliers. We promote an environmentally friendly attitude towards achieving sustainable development. Our history is characterized by a constant growth, realized also with the continuous investment on the development of people and their skills. We are over 7,000 employees, 59% in Italy and 41% in the rest of the world, present in more than 80 countries.

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IMA Life North America is a company within the IMA Group that specialises in providing aseptic processing and freeze-drying solutions for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. IMA Life North America is part of IMA Life, a business unit focusing on the pharmaceutical sector who delivers advanced technologies for filling, lyophilisation and isolation, ensuring maximum sterility and product integrity for customers around the globe.

JOB SUMMARY

The Engineered Product Procurement Specialist supports the Purchasing/Engineering Department by managing the procurement of engineered components and services within a capital equipment manufacturing environment, ensuring alignment with project cost, quality, and delivery targets and compliance with technical codes and specifications.

• Participate in project teams, driving collaboration between suppliers and design groups and communicating unresolved issues impacting project success.
• Apply Mechanical Engineering knowledge to ensure compliance with drawings, specifications, and applicable codes.
• Manage delivery targets through effective supplier coordination and communication.
• Secure quotes, technical specifications, and place purchase orders in a timely manner with consideration for cost, quality, safety, and delivery.
• Maintain purchase orders, schedules, and shortage reports to support customer requirements.
• Monitor supplier performance, including quality and on-time delivery, and investigate missed deliveries and lead-time issues.
• Manage supplier Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), including corrective and preventive actions, returns, rework, and back charges.
• Develop and support cost reduction initiatives and conduct supplier negotiations.
• Source and develop qualified technical suppliers to meet production and operational needs. 
• Identify and assist in the implementation of business process improvements and technical solutions to overcome project or supply challenges.
• Meet with suppliers to gain and maintain a strong technical understanding of purchased components and their applications.
• Ensure all activities comply with company policies, procedures, and management direction.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCES

• 3–7+ years buying experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or capital equipment environment
• Experience with RFQ development, technical bid evaluation, and supplier qualification for fabrication/machine shops 
• Track record negotiating with steel fabricators, foundries, forgers, or OEM equipment suppliers
• Experience managing long lead-time items and capital project schedules
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical/fabrication drawings,.
• Understanding of weldment and structural steel fabrication (frames, skids, base assemblies)
• Knowledge of materials (carbon steel, stainless, alloy) and how spec changes affect cost/lead time
• Familiarity with machining tolerances, surface finish call-outs, and heat treatment/coating specs
• Experience with capital equipment sourcing
• Comfortable reading BOMs, spec sheets, and engineering change orders (ECOs/ECNs
• ERP/MRP experience (SAP, Oracle, Infor, etc.)
• Experience with Vault a plus
• Ability to work directly with design engineers to clarify specs and resolve supplier questions
• Strong supplier relationship management and negotiation skills
• Comfortable doing supplier visits/audits (quality, capability, capacity for large equipment)
• Project management skills for tracking capital equipment builds through fabrication, inspection, and delivery

WHAT WOULD MAKE YOU A GREAT FIT

• Proficiency with SAP
• Available to travel <10%, including internationally.

SALARY RANGE

$80,000-100,000

Bonus

WHAT WE OFFER

• GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT: A dynamic and innovation-driven workplace, part of a multinational and multicultural group.
• DIVERSITY & INCLUSION CULTURE: Promoted through the Corporate Code of Ethics and dedicated programs.
• CONTINUOUS LEARNING: We view learning as a strategic lever for growth and motivation. We support internal training and external development initiatives.
• WELLBEING: We offer comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, and tuition assistance. As well as an annual bonus. 

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IMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.