Senior Buyer
Atlanta, GA
Legal – Legal (4031) /
Full-time /
On-site
At Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America (MBRDNA), we are committed to delivering world-class automotive technologies that push the boundaries of what is possible. Our teams of highly skilled engineers and designers use cutting-edge software and technology, to enhance the driving experience and reduce environmental impact.
This role is responsible for indirect sourcing and procurement of prototype components, tooling, engineering services, test equipment, and other non-production materials critical to our innovation pipeline. The Senior Buyer will serve as a subject matter expert within the procurement team, leading sourcing strategies, supplier negotiations, and cross-functional alignment with engineering, program management, facilities, IT, finance, and accounting.
This position is primarily strategic, but also includes tactical purchasing responsibilities to ensure on-time delivery and cost-effective supplier support. While the Senior Buyer will not have direct reports, they will serve as a team lead and mentor to junior buyers.
Job Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute sourcing strategies for prototype parts, tooling, engineering services, and R&D-related materials.
- Negotiate supplier contracts, pricing, and terms to achieve cost savings, quality, and delivery targets.
- Partner closely with engineering and program management teams to align procurement with project timelines and technical requirements.
- Manage supplier relationships, including supplier selection, onboarding, master data management, performance tracking, and issue resolution.
- Create and manage purchase orders, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely fulfillment.
- Provide guidance and mentorship to junior buyers on procurement best practices.
- Support cost analysis, benchmarking, and market intelligence to drive continuous improvement in sourcing.
- Collaborate with finance and legal teams on supplier agreements and compliance.
- Collaborate with finance and accounting teams to support budget planning, monitor financial performance, and resolve invoicing and billing discrepancies in a timely and accurate manner.
- Contribute in process improvement goals designed to effectively enhance the procurement process. Lead training of internal customers to ensure contract and procurement compliance.
- Assists Procurement Manager with design, implementation, and support of purchasing and vendor management systems and procedures to enhance the Purchasing operation.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or related field.
- 5–7+ years of procurement experience, preferably in automotive or advanced manufacturing industries.
- Strong knowledge of strategic sourcing, supplier negotiations, and contract management.
- Proven ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced, project-driven R&D environment.
- Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in automotive R&D or prototype procurement.
- Familiarity with SAP, SRM, or similar ERP/procurement systems.
- CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) certification.
- Advanced Excel and data analysis skills.
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Why should you apply?
Here at MBRDNA, you create digital ecosystems around cars, you design a language between humans and machines, you make a car even more intelligent - you make the new reality for cars. MBRDNA was honored as one of the "Best Places to Work" by BuiltIn in January 2024, a testament to our commitment to creating an exceptional work environment. At each of our offices, we foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, ensuring every team member can thrive and innovate.
Benefits for Full-Time* Employees Include:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families
• 401(k) with employer match
• Up to 18 company-paid holidays
• Paid time off (flexible time off for salaried employees), sick time, and parental leave
• Tuition assistance program
• Wellness/Fitness reimbursement programs
* Internships & Contractors excluded from Full-Time Employee benefits
MBRDNA is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and strongly supports diversity in the workforce. MBRDNA only accepts resumes from approved agencies who have a valid Agency Agreement on file. Please do not forward resumes to our applicant tracking system, MBRDNA employees, or send to any MBRDNA location. MBRDNA is not responsible for any fees or claims related to receipt of unsolicited resumes.
Mercedes-Benz Research and Development North America, Inc.
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