Buyer

Description

Midlab began its journey in 1980 with a simple desire to produce the best cleaning formulations in the industry, while building strong partnerships with customers. 40+ years later, we are one of the leading cleaning product manufacturers in the country, serving a global market and leading the way in product innovation and sustainability.

If you want to be challenged, innovate, and work with a team that supports your growth both professionally and personally, Midlab could be the right place for you. We look forward to getting to know you.

Our Core Values
Committed and Empowered Team
Open and Honest Relationships
Relentless Customer Focus
Embrace and Drive Change
Value Positive Teamwork & Family Spirit

Buyer Position Summary:

Midlab is seeking a proactive, analytical Buyer to own purchasing for all materials across our Athens, TN manufacturing plant, including raw materials, packaging, non-inventory and MRO supplies, and freight. This is not a traditional order-entry role. You will use business knowledge, critical thinking, and foresight to anticipate needs, understand how products and seasonality drive demand, and solve supply and logistics problems as they arise, working closely with our Supply Chain Integration Lead and Production Planner. The ideal candidate takes initiative, handles multiple priorities with composure, and wants to grow into greater responsibility within the department. This is a fully on-site position. This position offers clear opportunities for professional advancement within our inclusive and forward-thinking culture.

Buyer Responsibilities:

• Manage purchasing for all raw materials, packaging, non-inventory/MRO supplies, and freight, keeping purchase orders, item master data, lead times, and pricing accurate.
• Anticipate material needs from demand, seasonality, lead times, and related products, maintaining inventory levels that balance availability, turns, and cost.
• Partner with the Supply Chain Integration Lead and Production Planner to keep purchasing, inventory, and production schedules aligned.
• Manage supplier performance by confirming orders, expediting late deliveries, and resolving delivery, quality, invoice, and receiving discrepancies, including vendor returns.
• Coordinate inbound freight, solve day-to-day logistics problems, and manage CHEP pallet activity and reconciliation
• Document standard work and use data and analytical tools to continuously improve purchasing processes, tools, and stocking levels, taking on new projects as the department grows. 
• Other responsibilities as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Purchasing, procurement, or supply chain experience preferred, ideally in manufacturing; candidates with less experience who demonstrate strong critical thinking are encouraged to apply.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills, with high attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities at once and stay composed under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and experience with ERP/MRP systems (Datacor a plus); comfort using data and analytical tools to work more effectively.
• Outstanding communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build professional relationships with suppliers and internal teams.
• Initiative to identify problems and drive solutions without step-by-step direction, and a strong desire to grow into greater responsibility.