Senior Buyer

Company Overview

Kindred is a rapidly growing, venture backed start-up focused on unlocking the conversion of gasoline vehicles to electric using our technology and scale.

We are marketing folks, technicians, software developers, mechanical engineers, designers, painters, and car lovers. We love a whiff of gasoline and we geek out about the torque provided by electric motors. Above all we believe the world is a better place with vintage cars out on the road.

We strive to create a meaningful workplace at Kindred, which means something different for each of our team members. For some, it’s getting these immortal vehicles on the road. For others it’s the portion of revenue we donate to our local community for every vehicle sold. For many at Kindred, it’s the inclusive work environment we’ve created.

Our cars create joyful experiences for our customers and immense pride for our team. If you can match our passion, values, and work ethic, we want you!

Position Summary

The Senior Buyer will report to the Director of Supply Chain and will be responsible for sourcing all parts used in building our Kindred vehicles. This is a hands-on role that includes both strategic planning and tactical purchasing. The right person will develop close working relationships with our engineering and design teams, and build strong partnerships with external vendors, to bring both off-the-shelf and newly engineered parts from concept into production. This person will own the process from end to end and will have the opportunity to build a team as we grow.

The ideal candidate will have proven experience with parts purchasing in a manufacturing environment – Ideally in an early/mid-stage startup. The right person should also be comfortable working independently, making decisions, and optimizing processes for efficiency and accuracy.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Research, select and purchase quality products and materials
• Research and develop new sources of supply
• Collaborate with other KMW departments to ensure supplier processes are satisfactory
• Build relationships with suppliers and negotiate with them for the best pricing
• Process requisitions and update management on status of orders
• Update inventory and ensure that stock levels are kept at appropriate levels
• Arrange transport of goods and track orders to ensure timely delivery
• Analyze market trends and apply this knowledge to make insightful buying decisions
• Assess the quality of stock received and escalate any discrepancies to suppliers and management
• Monitor supplier performance and initiate corrective actions, as necessary
• Defer or cancel POs based on demand requirements; and expedite orders when required to ensure on time shipment and resolve any current or anticipated shortages that may result in line-stoppages
• Frequently interact and collaborate with other functional areas, i.e., engineering, production, materials, quality, and finance
• Manage supplier relationships, procure goods and services, sheet metal, electronics, tools, parts, and supplies to support production and development schedules
• This position quotes and places orders with approved vendors
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

• Minimum five years’ experience in procurement and/or planning while working in a manufacturing environment
• Familiar working with quality requirements
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes
• Proven team player who has demonstrated capabilities in the following areas: strong communication, interpersonal, & problem-solving skills; self-direction is a must
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines
• Strong computer skills are desirable, to include: Excel, PowerPoint, and experience with a major ERP system
• Flexible and open to change

Desired Skills

• Experience with PTC Arena/Onshape or similar PLM
• Experience with Fishbowl or similar ERP
• Experience with Retool
• Automotive/Medical Device/EE purchasing preferred

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.

You will spend time in a working facility, particularly as we build out our processes. Walking, sitting, standing, bending, and stooping. Lifting, carrying, or pushing/pulling supplies, materials, equipment and/or items weighing up to 75 pounds. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but at times requires ear plugs and/or the use of eye protection.

What We Offer

• A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
• A collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Access to cutting-edge tools and technologies.
• Engagement in projects that impact and improve our products and processes.

If you are passionate and looking to make a significant impact in a leading company, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Join us in driving innovation and excellence in our industry.

Kindred Motorworks is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug-free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.