Buyer & Inventory Controller

About ERMCO

Electric Research and Manufacturing Cooperative, Inc. (ERMCO) is the leading manufacturer of distribution transformers and engineered electrical solutions, serving electric utilities, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and industrial customers across North America. Headquartered in Dyersburg, Tenn., ERMCO delivers reliable, high-quality products that power homes, businesses, and communities across North America. 

With a commitment to safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement, ERMCO is at the forefront of supporting grid modernization and energy transition. Our vertically integrated operations, customer-focused culture, and investment in people and technology make ERMCO the Most Valued Partner for delivering resilient, sustainable power infrastructure for the future. 

Job Summary

Responsible for the end‑to‑end planning, procurement, and inventory management of raw materials, components, consumables, and supplies necessary to support production and plant operations. This role manages vendor relationships, oversees purchasing activities, ensures accurate inventory levels, and leads cross‑functional coordination with Production, S&OP, Warehouse, and Continuous Improvement teams. The position ensures that materials are available at the right time, in the right quantities, and at optimal cost to support on‑time delivery and operational efficiency.

Purchasing & Supplier Management

• Review requisitions, production schedules, and MRP reports to manage raw material and supply demand plans.
• Prepare purchase orders, bid requests, delivery, and contractual terms within budgetary authority.
• Build and maintain strong supplier relationships to support current and future plant needs.
• Research and qualify new vendors for new product or service requirements.
• Maintain procurement records, including cost, delivery, quality, performance, and purchasing history.
• Approve invoices and resolve supplier‑related issues.
• Partner with corporate Purchasing to manage enterprise contracts and align on vendor strategy.

Inventory Control & Material Accuracy

• Maintain accurate inventory levels for raw materials to meet production and financial targets.
• Perform cycle counts, inventory audits, and reconcile variances through root‑cause analysis.
• Monitor and report inventory metrics, including accuracy, turns, and DSI.
• Ensure proper and timely material transactions in ERP/MRP systems.
• Improve and maintain inventory control procedures, labeling, storage organization, and material flow processes.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• • Work closely with Production, S&OP, Warehouse, and Logistics to ensure seamless material availability.
  • Support production scheduling by providing accurate inventory data and material availability insights.
  • Provide data and analysis for demand planning and forecasting activities.

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Business or related field preferred
• Three to five years’ experience in a purchasing role
• Relevant certifications in inventory management or supply chain a plus (APICS)
• Experience with MRP or ERP system
• Strong capabilities with Microsoft Excel
• Experience in manufacturing environment preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to anticipate opportunities or problems and address proactively.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with ability to work with cross-functional teams
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills

Join ERMCO and TRANSFORM your career