Jr. Buyer - Aftermarket

Location: Dixon, IL Job Type: Full-Time, In Person Job Summary The Junior Buyer supports the Purchasing team by ensuring materials and components are ordered accurately and delivered on time to support Aftermarket sales. This position works closely with suppliers and internal departments to manage purchase orders, monitor delivery schedules, resolve routine supply issues, and maintain accurate purchasing information. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a career in purchasing and supply chain within a retail environment. The Junior Buyer will gain hands-on experience in supplier management, inventory planning, sourcing, cost analysis, and procurement while working alongside experienced members of the Purchasing team. Primary Responsibilities • Manage daily purchase requirements and convert approved requirements into purchase orders. • Place purchase orders with approved suppliers based on inventory levels, and aftermarket requirements. • Review purchase orders for accurate part numbers, quantities, pricing and lead times. • Monitor open purchase orders and follow up with suppliers to confirm delivery dates and identify potential delays. • Assist with identifying alternate sources when existing suppliers are unable to meet required lead times or demand. • Maintain accurate supplier, pricing, lead-time, and purchasing information within company systems. • Support cost-analysis and sourcing activities as assigned. • Coordinate with Receiving to resolve purchasing and receipt material issues. • Assist with rejected or nonconforming parts by coordinating communication between suppliers and internal Quality personnel. • Help maintain supplier performance information. • Develop productive working relationships with suppliers and internal departments. • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to purchasing, inventory, supplier performance, and procurement processes. • Assist Senior Buyer and Purchasing leadership with sourcing projects, supplier reviews, and other purchasing initiatives. • Participate in supplier visits as needed. Required Skills and Abilities • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. • Strong written and verbal communication skills. • Ability to manage multiple priorities and follow up on open items. • Comfortable communicating with suppliers and internal departments by phone and email. • Ability to review pricing, quantities, lead times, and other purchasing data for accuracy. • Basic analytical and problem-solving skills. • Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365, including Excel, Outlook, and Teams. • Ability and willingness to learn purchasing, inventory, ERP, and suppliermanagement systems. • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. • Dependable, proactive, and willing to take ownership of assigned purchasing activities. Education and Experience • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, Manufacturing, or a related field preferred but not required. • 0–3 years of purchasing, supply chain, inventory, manufacturing, customer service, or related experience preferred. • Previous experience working in a distribution environment is a plus. • ERP or purchasing-system experience is a plus. • Entry-level candidates with strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills are encouraged to apply. Commitments and Location • Full-time, in-person position based in Dixon, Illinois. • Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. • Occasional travel may be required for supplier visits and training, generally less than 10%. Physical Requirements • Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times. Benefits • Competitive base salary based on experience. • Quarterly productivity bonus based on company performance and applicable program requirements. • Health, dental, and vision insurance. • 401(k) with company match. • Paid holidays and vacation.