Regular Full Time
Professional
West Henrietta, NY, US
Salary Range: $80,000.00 To $90,000.00 Annually
Title
Buyer
Department
Supply Chain
Reports to
Director of Supply Chain
SEE YOUR CAREER THROUGH A NEW LENS WITH RPO!
RPO is a global leader in precision optics, optical components, and optical assemblies. We specialize in a full spectrum of products & services including - Design and Engineering, Systems Integration, Lens Assembly, Visible and Infrared Components, Glass and Plastic Molded Aspheres, and Thin Film Coating. As one of the fastest growing companies in the Rochester area, RPO offers exciting career paths to work on market-leading programs across a variety of industries.
Position Overview:
Reporting directly to the Director of Supply Chain, the Buyer is responsible for sourcing materials and services, negotiating favorable terms, and ensuring reliable supplier performance to support production and operational needs. This role manages day-to-day purchasing activities, drives cost improvements, and helps maintain a resilient supply base across key commodities such as optical glass, machined components, plastics, coating services, and select MRO/indirect items.
Key Responsibilities:
Negotiate pricing, lead times, and payment terms to meet cost, quality, and delivery objectives.
Drive cost reductions through supplier negotiations, purchase price variance (PPV) improvements, and cost-avoidance initiatives.
Procure materials and services at the best total cost of ownership while maintaining continuity of supply.
Independently quote materials, components, and project-based purchases
Track and improve supplier on-time delivery and overall performance
Identify and mitigate supply risks, material shortages, and capacity constraints
Support inventory-turn goals through disciplined purchasing practices and demand alignment
Monitor, analyze, and report material variances to support accurate costing and financial visibility
Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Finance, and Operations to resolve supply issues and support new product or process needs
Identify, propose, and qualify new suppliers to improve cost, quality, or lead time
Ensure compliance with ITAR, EAR, and defense-related procurement requirements
Required Skills & Qualifications:
Associate's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field; Bachelor's degree preferred.
3+ years of direct purchasing experience, preferably within a precision manufacturing environment involving optical components, mechanical parts, or electro-mechanical assemblies.
Experience with commodity purchasing, supplier management, and procuring materials or components to support manufacturing operations.
Strong understanding of purchasing processes, including purchase order management, supplier communication, pricing, lead times, and material availability.
Experience working with an ERP system; Epicor experience preferred.
Strong interpersonal and customer service skills, with the ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
Outgoing, approachable, and solutions-oriented personality, with a willingness to take initiative, solve problems, and follow through on commitments.
Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams, including Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain, to support production and business needs.
Experience working in a defense, aerospace, or other regulated manufacturing environment preferred.
Basic knowledge of accounting principles, including purchase orders, invoices, pricing, and cost management.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven manufacturing environment.
Demonstrated ability to take ownership of purchasing activities, anticipate potential supply issues, and proactively communicate solutions to internal stakeholders and suppliers.
Core Competencies:
Results-Oriented: Motivated, hard-working and ready to level-up;
Curious: You never stop learning and have an insatiable desire to gain new skills and knowledge;
Process Oriented: Well organized, demonstrating attention to detail;
Analytical: Possess a "If there's a problem, I'll find a solution" attitude;
Accountable: Demanding the highest quality from yourself and team members;
Detail-Oriented: Have excellent time management and organizational skills;
A Team Player: Reliable, collaborative, flexible with a positive 'get things done' attitude;
Additional Requirements:
Pursuant to ITAR, EAR, and other export compliance laws and regulations, applicants for this position must be U.S. Persons as defined by U.S. law, i.e., U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents ("Green Card" holders), persons granted refugee status or asylum status in the United States, or temporary residents granted amnesty.
Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive compensation package linked to your experience and performance.
401(k) with company match and Tuition Reimbursement opportunities.
Health, dental, vision, HSA, & life insurance.
Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and 11 paid company holidays
Environment & Physical Demands:
Professional office environment with routine use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, copiers, filing cabinets and fax machine; noise level typical of a standard office environment
Prolonged sitting, computer and telephone use, as well as standing, filing, bending, reaching and lifting and carrying up to 15 pounds
Occasional exposure to manufacturing plant floor requiring the use of personal protective equipment (ear plugs, safety glasses, etc.)
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Disclaimer:
This job description reflects management's assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.
Rochester Precision Optics is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our business and our people.
EEO/AA/Race/Gender/Disability/Veteran
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States, and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
Monday - Friday, 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM. This position follows a consistent first-shift schedule, with occasional flexibility in hours as needed to support business and operational needs.
