Ecowater Systems LLC As a part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings-which is backed by Berkshire Hathaway-you'll be doing things that matter, leading at every level, and winning a better way. We're committed to making a positive impact on the world, providing you with diverse learning and working opportunities, and fostering a culture where everyone's empowered to be their best. Responsible for the procurement of raw materials, components, and indirect supplies to support manufacturing operations. This role ensures timely material availability, cost efficiency, and supplier reliability, while actively supporting Lean Manufacturing principles and 5S standards across supply chain activities. The Buyer works closely with operations, planning, engineering, and quality teams to drive continuous improvement and supply chain efficiency. Company Overview Established in 1925, EcoWater Systems LLC is headquartered in Eagan, MN and has two manufacturing facilities in Mississippi. EcoWater is the world's largest manufacturer of highly engineered, in-home water softening and drinking water solutions. EcoWater has been owned by Marmon Holdings, Inc. since 1981, and today is one of six companies within their Water group. Marmon is a Berkshire Hathaway company and comprises 11 groups and more than 100 autonomous businesses with total annual revenue of $12 billion. Marmon's 30,000-plus team members serve diverse industries and markets worldwide in over 120 countries. The 11 groups include Medical, Water, Foodservice Technologies, Retail Solutions, Transportation Products, Rail & Leasing, Electrical, Plumbing & Refrigeration, Metal Services, Industrial Products, & Crane Services. Overall Responsibilities
- Purchase raw materials, parts, and production supplies in alignment with manufacturing schedules and inventory requirements.
- Negotiate pricing, delivery terms, and contracts with vendors to support cost-saving initiatives.
- Collaborate with production planning to forecast material needs and avoid supply disruptions.
- Issue and manage purchase orders; track deliveries and expedite orders when necessary.
- Monitor vendor performance and resolve issues related to quality, delivery, or invoicing.
- Maintain accurate purchasing and inventory records within ERP systems.
- Manages and reduces inventory through tools such as Kanban, consignment, lead times, and order quantities.
- Participate in and support Lean Manufacturing initiatives, including waste reduction and lead-time improvements.
- Contribute to 5S practices by maintaining organized and efficient procurement areas and documentation systems.
- Work with engineering and quality to support new product introductions and changes to existing components.
- Identify opportunities for cost reductions, supplier consolidation, and lead time improvements.
- Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
Qualifications, Skills, Competencies - Bachelor's degree in Business or a related field.
- Minimum of three years' experience in Purchasing & Planning, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
- Strong negotiation and supplier management skills.
- Understanding of manufacturing processes and materials requirements planning.
- Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office.
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing and 5S preferred.
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
- Strong communication skills and a customer-service mindset.
Working Conditions Hours of work will generally be during regular business hours but will vary according to special projects, deadlines or other concerns. The main location for this individual will be Iuka. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Acknowledgement This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed by employee assigned to this position. It does not state or imply that these are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to the job. The employee may be required to perform other job-related duties as requested by management. All requirements are subject to change over time and to possible modifications to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability. Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to their membership in any protected class. If you require any reasonable accommodation to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please email your request to
[email protected], and please be sure to include the title and the location of the position for which you are applying.