Buyer I

Kaiser Aluminum is known around the world for its superior quality. Our secret is what we put into it—innovative thinking, industry-leading reliability, and a world-class commitment to customer service. In short, the same qualities we look for in our people. 

We are looking for a Purchasing Agent I to join Kaiser Aluminum Warrick Operations in Newburgh, Indiana!

The Purchasing Agent I is responsible for adhering to standard purchasing practices in the procurement of goods and services, ensuring compliance with quality processes for items including maintenance parts, supplies, equipment, tools, services, and inventory management. Work is performed in accordance with established policies and procedures, with a strong focus on accuracy and efficiency to support departmental and plant requirements and deadlines. 

What you will work on: 

• Generate and expedite purchase orders (POs) in compliance with company policies for materials and supplies, storeroom inventory, and services. 

• Perform procurement activities to support storeroom replenishment, ensure inventory accuracy, optimize min/max levels, and resolve related issues. 

• Evaluate inventory replenishment requests to maintain optimal levels based on usage, criticality, and lead times. 

• Follow inventory procedures and contribute to initiatives aimed at identifying and managing inventory obsolescence. 

• Initiate new material creation and modifications, ensuring appropriate attributes are defined. 

• Identify and develop suppliers to achieve cost, quality, and performance targets. 

• Support new supplier creation and modification. 

• Monitor, document, and manage supplier performance both formally and informally to ensure highest levels of service and supply. 

• Act as a liaison between suppliers and plant personnel to obtain product specifications and service details, including pricing, availability, and delivery schedules. 

• Leverage Lean Manufacturing tools and other continuous improvement methodologies to enhance administrative processes, distribution, and drive cost efficiency. 

• Work with stakeholders to resolve issues with defective goods or services by identifying root causes and coordinating corrective actions. 

• Negotiate purchase terms and issue resolution with suppliers, including pricing, PO terms, payment, delivery, and termination options. 

• Assist in resolving supplier invoice discrepancies to ensure timely payment processing 

• Ensure compliance with company financial controls related to procurement and inventory management. 

• Support procurement, warehousing, and distribution of MRO inventory with a focus on cost-effective solutions. 

About you: 

• Entry level purchasing with 1-5 years of experience. 

• Bachelor's degree required 

• Proficiency in procurement and inventory management systems; experience with ERP software, Oracle Business Intelligence software is a plus. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively within teams. 

• Strong attention to detail. 

• Solid understanding of contract law and the execution of contracts between buyers and sellers 

• Competent with computer software and tools, including Windows, Word, and Excel. 

• Certifications such as CPSM, CSCP, CPSD, CPM, and/or APP are preferred or considered an asset. 

About Kaiser Aluminum Warrick:  

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered based on job-related qualifications and abilities.  There shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

About Kaiser Aluminum: Talented people join our team because we are a company passionate about environmental sustainability, employee growth, contributing back to our communities and championing an inclusive culture