Machine and Fabrication Technical Buyer

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, delivers intelligent automated manufacturing and distribution solutions that transform how the world’s leading manufacturers build and move products. Our success is powered by deep technical expertise across machining, fabrication, and engineered manufacturing processes—supported by strong supply chain execution. 

We are seeking a Machine & Fabrication Technical Buyer to join our team in Nashville, TN or Holland, MI. This role is designed for a professional with a strong manufacturing and fabrication background who can apply that technical knowledge to guide sourcing decisions, mentor others, and ensure the right manufacturing solutions—whether internal or external—are used to support complex automation projects. 

• Act as a technical subject matter expert in machining and fabrication, providing guidance on part design, manufacturing methods, supplier capabilities, and feasibility, and advising on the cost, quality, and delivery impacts of manufacturing decisions.
• Evaluate and continuously improve the preferred machining and fabrication supplier base based on demonstrated technical capabilities, capacity, quality, and alignment to JR Automation’s manufacturing needs. 
• Assist with make vs. buy decisions using deep knowledge of internal manufacturing capabilities and external fabrication suppliers to ensure optimal technical and business outcomes. 
• Collaborate cross‑functionally to align on timelines, supplier constraints, delivery schedules, and technical requirements, ensuring components meet design and production needs.
• Apply manufacturing expertise to project bills of material, ensuring components are sourced in alignment with supply chain strategy and project requirements. 
• Support material expediting activities by identifying root causes and working with suppliers and internal teams to resolve manufacturing challenges. 
• Build and maintain strong supplier and stakeholder relationships through regular technical discussions and shop visits.
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, and commercial terms as needed.
• Collaborate with Commodity and Strategic Purchasing teams to ensure manufacturing and fabrication sourcing strategies deliver optimal technical value across the organization. 
• Work alongside Supply Chain Management partners across business units to share best practices in manufacturing-focused sourcing and supplier management. 

Note: This list of responsibilities is inclusive and intended as a guideline for primary activities. 

• Relevant experience in Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, or Business, with a bachelor’s degree preferred but not required, manufacturing or fabrication experience highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of machining and fabrication processes, such as machining, welding, sheet metal, and structural fabrication. 
• Minimum of 3+ years of experience in a manufacturing, fabrication, or project-based environment, ideally supporting engineered-to-order systems or automation projects. 
• Proven experience working with suppliers on technical manufacturing requirements, not just commercial transactions. 
• Strong experience with ERP systems; Epicor experience preferred.
• Experience supporting lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives, particularly in supplier performance and manufacturing flow. 
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word for technical analysis, reporting, and communication. 
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to build credibility and relationships across Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and supplier organizations. 
• Willingness to travel up to 10% to supplier locations and other JR facilities to support technical reviews and relationship management. 
• Current or prior JR Automation experience, or experience within the automation industry, strongly preferred.

At JR Automation, A Hitachi Group Company, we discover potential, reimagine limits, and advance industry. When faced with a problem, we find a solution. Together, we push what’s possible to automate for tomorrow.