Purchasing Support jobs in Kitchener, ON

Position: Purchaser

Job Type: Full time In-Office – Permanent

Salary: $55,000 to $75,000

About Us

Waterloo Biofilter Systems Inc. is a Canadian owned and operated company that develops, manufactures, and maintains advanced onsite wastewater treatment systems. Our mission is to protect soil and water resources through innovative wastewater treatment solutions and staying committed to high quality treatments, low electricity usage, and system dependability. Since 1991, our technology has proven to be the most reliable system available, and we continually strive to lead the industry in innovation and service. We pride ourselves on our outstanding team of employees who stand behind our company and our systems; not only leading the industry, but providing a supportive community that allows for both personal and professional growth. Our entire team, whether on the warehouse floor, in the office, or out in the field, utilizes collaboration and teamwork alongside continuous improvement in order to get the job done right – that’s “The Waterloo Way”.

Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Purchaser to support our manufacturing operations by sourcing and procuring raw materials, components, supplies, and services required for production. The Purchaser will play a critical role in maintaining inventory levels, managing supplier relationships, controlling costs, and ensuring materials are available to meet production schedules and customer demands.

The ideal candidate will possess strong negotiation skills, experience within a manufacturing environment, and the ability to balance quality, delivery timelines, and cost-effectiveness while supporting continuous operational improvement.

This position will report directly to the Operations Supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, contracts, and service agreements to achieve cost savings and operational efficiencies
• Proactively analyze sales trends, inventory levels, and production schedules to modify purchasing strategies and maintain optimal stock levels throughout peak and off-peak seasons.
• Purchase raw materials, components, tools, maintenance supplies, and other materials required for manufacturing operations.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate replenishment to prevent shortages or production interruptions.
• Review production schedules and forecasts to anticipate purchasing requirements.
• Issue purchase orders and manage order acknowledgments, confirmations, and delivery schedules.
• Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers and vendors to ensure reliable supply and competitive pricing.
• Track open purchase orders and expedite deliveries as required to meet production deadlines.
• Evaluate supplier performance related to quality, pricing, delivery, and responsiveness.
• Resolve supplier issues involving quality concerns, late deliveries, shortages, and invoice discrepancies.
• Identify alternative suppliers and sourcing opportunities to mitigate supply chain risks.
• Analyze purchasing trends and provide recommendations for inventory optimization and cost reduction initiatives.
• Coordinate and manage drop-ship orders, including arranging direct shipments from suppliers to customer locations, ensuring accuracy, timely delivery, and effective communication between suppliers, customers, and internal teams.

Requirements

• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Postsecondary education in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Purchasing, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of purchasing, procurement, inventory management, or supply chain experience in a manufacturing environment.
• High proficiency in Inventory management software, ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite required.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing processes and production planning are considered an asset.
• Excellent communication, customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.

Location & Specifics

• Guelph, Ontario
• 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Monday to Friday
• Full-time in-office position

Waterloo Biofilter welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities.

Accommodation is available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the

selection process.

Pay: $55,000.00-$75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision care

Application question(s):

• Are you legally authorized to work in Canada?
• Will you require employer sponsorship now or in the future to continue working in Canada?
• Do you have a minimum 4 years of experience in a Purchaser/Buyer role where purchasing was the primary job function?
• Do you have experience using an ERP system to manage purchasing activities, purchase orders, vendor management, and inventory transactions?
• This is a full-time, on-site position. Are you able and willing to work in the office on a full-time basis?

Work Location: In person