About Calian
At Calian, we help organizations overcome obstacles, manage risks, and drive progress. Since 1982, we’ve grown from a small consulting firm into a trusted global company across defence, space, health, nuclear energy, public safety, and government.
We create innovative solutions that tackle complex challenges and help organizations and communities stay resilient, informed, and connected. If you’re driven by purpose and energized by solving real-world challenges, we want you on our team.
Position Overview
The Buyer is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing the timely delivery of raw materials, components, and supplies required for production operations. Working closely with suppliers and internal teams, the Buyer ensures the right materials are available at the right time and cost, supporting uninterrupted manufacturing processes and maintaining optimal inventory levels. This role plays a critical part in balancing cost-efficiency, quality, and supply continuity within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Responsibilities
Source and procure raw materials, components, and production supplies in alignment with production schedules and demand forecasts.
Negotiate prices, terms, and delivery schedules with suppliers to secure cost-effective and reliable supply contracts.
Issue purchase orders and track their status to ensure timely delivery of materials to support manufacturing operations.
Monitor supplier performance in terms of quality, cost, delivery, and responsiveness; escalate and resolve issues as needed.
Collaborate with production, planning, quality, and inventory control teams to ensure material availability and resolve supply chain disruptions.
Maintain accurate purchasing records and documentation in the ERP or procurement system (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
Evaluate and select new suppliers, ensuring compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements.
Analyze material usage, lead times, and inventory levels to optimize purchasing strategies and reduce excess stock or shortages.
Support cost reduction initiatives by identifying alternative sources, negotiating better pricing, or implementing supply chain efficiencies.
Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations when purchasing and handling materials, especially hazardous items.
Qualifications
Strong negotiation and communication skills, both verbal and written.
Proficiency in ERP Systems, SAP preferred & Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel).
Understanding of manufacturing processes, bill of materials (BOM), and material lead times.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced production setting.
Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Working knowledge of procurement regulations, supplier quality standards, and basic contract terms.
Additional Requirements
Primarily office-based within a manufacturing or industrial facility, with regular interaction with production, planning, and warehouse teams.
May require occasional walk-throughs of production or warehouse areas to coordinate material flow or address supply issues.
Regular use of computers and ERP systems for procurement activities, data analysis, and supplier communication.
May involve occasional travel to supplier sites or other company locations, depending on sourcing requirements.
Compensation
$53,000 – $72,000
Vacancy
We have 1 available position
#LI-AS1# #SF#
At Calian, we do not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to screen or evaluate candidates. AI tools may support backend administrative tasks, but they do not influence hiring decisions. All evaluations and decisions are made by real people on our recruitment team and hiring managers. All applicants are reviewed and only those chosen for an interview will be contacted by our recruiting team.
How we hire
- Our hiring process is designed to help us get to know you and discover if you are the best fit for our team. It’s also an opportunity for you to gauge if a role at Calian is the right fit for you.
Throughout the process, we’ll share details of the kind of work you’ll be doing, the projects you’ll be working on, the team you’ll be joining, and what it’s like working at Calian. Our biggest tip throughout the process is to just be your authentic self! - Our commitment to diverse, yet highly specialized solutions require many different skills and abilities. We look for the best talent that can contribute to Calian’s success as well as enhance our culture. We encourage you to apply to a role or join our talent community and sign up for job alerts that match your area of expertise and what you are looking for in your next opportunity.
During the recruiting process, you’re encouraged to notify us of any accommodations you may require. We’ll be happy to help.
- We give the same time and consideration to everyone who applies. Here are a few things you can do to ensure your application shines:
- Do your research on Calian, the department, and team you are looking to join
- Add a cover letter that explains why you are a good fit for this position
- Share a portfolio, personal websites, or links to your professional social media
- In your CV, highlight your key achievements – this is your time to brag
- Include dates! Share the timeline of your experience
- Stand out by tailoring your resume to each position you apply to
- Only apply to roles you’re genuinely interested in and that align to your experience
- Be prepared! Do your research on Calian, the department, and team you are looking to join
- View the responsibilities for the role and find examples that demonstrate how you’ve completed these in your previous work experience
- Prepare a list of questions to ask us
- Dress business casual for your interview (virtual and in person)
- We assess your skills and fit, you assess our fit for you
- We keep you updated and share expectations as we make progress in the recruiting cycle
- Feel free to reach out to your Talent Acquisition Specialist at any time during the hiring process
