Buyer

Status: Exempt (Salaried)

Department: Purchasing/Supply Chain

Location: Alphen aan den Rij n, Netherlands

Position Summary

The Buyer serves a critical role to Plug Power by working to procure necessary parts and components in support of the manufacturing operation and other critical business functions.  The ideal candidate for this role must be a diligent and thorough task executor who can effectively manage multiple priorities with clarity and focus.  The Buyer role must establish very strong and mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers and therefore requires dynamic interpersonal skills.  A most successful Buyer exhibits timely and accurate transactional work, outstanding cross-functional collaboration, proactive communication skills, and unwavering follow-up to ensure completion of critical tasks and projects.  The Buyer is a critical and value-added member of the supply chain organization.       

Core Duties and Responsibilities

Perform transactional duties including placing of purchase orders to procure material in support of manufacturing and other business functionsBuild and maintain effective cross-functional relationships; communicate regularly to maintain an understanding of timelines and activities which impact supply chainAct as a primary partner to the manufacturing operation by understanding build schedules and managing supply chain activities to increase efficiency and eliminate downtimeTake responsibility for accurate and on-time delivery of parts and components; follow-up on PO’s with suppliers and manage delivery date expectations as necessary with all relevant stakeholdersUnderstand material specifications and quality metrics affecting assigned parts and components; work collaboratively to resolve quality issues with suppliersDevelop strong relationships with suppliers and communicate regularly; manage date pull-ins and push-outs on an ongoing basisServe as a mentor and advisor to the purchasing team, guiding and directing activities of fellow Buyers as neededTrain new team members, acting as advisor and resourceLeverage positive working relationships with suppliers based upon mutual benefit; seek favorable terms and conditions which positively impact pricing, quality, payment terms, and others as applicableTrack supplier performance and provide regular feedback to relevant stakeholders; set clear expectations with suppliers and work to add/replace suppliers as needed for optimal business resultsCollaborate with colleagues in the finance department to resolve supplier payment issuesRepresent Plug Power in a professional manner at all times and in all interactionsPerform all other duties as assigned

Education and Experience

Bachelors degree in Engineering, Business, or other applicable field of study and three (3) or more years of related work experience, or equivalent combination of education and experienceExperience within a technology manufacturing environment is highly preferred Must be capable of working independently, in a fast-paced environment, with minimal supervisionDemonstrated analytical abilities with strong attention to detailSuperior communication skillsProficient with Microsoft Office software including highly developed skills within ExcelAbility to manage projects and multi-task effectivelyAbility to role model high standards of professionalismExcellent follow-throughMust be driven and self-motivatedMust possess the highest ethical standards and a supreme commitment to qualityExempt employees are expected to work as many hours as is necessary to complete their job responsibilities.  This may require they work more than eight hours a day and more than five days or 40 hours per week.  

Plug Power, Inc. is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other legally protected status.