Buyer 1 at The Marwin Company – West Columbia, South Carolina

Inventory ManagementSupplier NegotiationManufacturing ProcessesNegotiationPhysical InventoryCost Variance AnalysisDecision-MakingResource ManagementMaterials ProcuremenThe Marwin Company Description

Since 1947, The Marwin Company, a manufacturer of premium building products, including code-compliant folding attic stairways, innovative attic access solutions, and pocket door frames, has been a trusted provider of interior French and louver doors. Renowned for delivering superior quality, on-time shipments, and exceptional customer service across the nation, including Hawaii, Marwin sets the standard in energy-saving products for the residential housing industry. When quality matters, ensure it's Marwin-made.

At the heart of our operations lie our core values: TRUST, Team-Oriented, Working collaboratively and cooperatively together to achieve a common goal, we replace "I" and "me" with "us" and "we" ; Results-Driven, Delivering exceptional results through exceptional performance ; Unparalleled Service, Manufacturing and operational excellence focused on quality, value and an unmatched customer experience ; Safety-Focused, Committed to the safety and welfare of our employees, customers and communities; and Transformational, Fostering creativity that challenges constraints and drives continuous improvement. These values guide our every decision and action, shaping our culture and driving our commitment to excellence

Buyer I – The Marwin Company

Reports To: Director of Supply Chain

Position Overview

The Buyer I is an integral member of the supply chain team, reporting directly to the Director of Supply Chain. This position works closely with Buyer II and cross-functional teams in production, engineering, finance, and warehousing to support daily inventory and material deliverables. The Buyer I is responsible for managing supplier communication, issuing purchase orders, monitoring inventory and shortages, and ensuring materials are available on time to meet production requirements.

Key Responsibilities

1. Tactical Purchasing

Create, issue, and manage purchase orders for materials, components, and supplies.

Track open orders and confirm on-time delivery through the ERP system (Ponderosa / NetSuite).

Obtain and verify supplier quotes, lead times, and pricing.

Follow up with suppliers to resolve delivery or order discrepancies.

Maintain accurate supplier and part information in the system.

2. Material Planning & Coordination

Review material requirements and reorder points to ensure continuous production flow.

Monitor inventory levels and potential shortages, escalating issues as needed.

Coordinate with production and warehouse teams to align material needs with actual usage and demand.

Communicate proactively with suppliers to expedite or adjust deliveries.

Support material readiness for production schedule changes and product launches.

3. Supplier Communication

Act as the day-to-day contact for assigned suppliers.

Confirm order details, delivery commitments, and pricing accuracy.

Track supplier performance on key metrics such as on-time delivery and responsiveness.

Assist in maintaining supplier scorecards and documenting improvement opportunities.

Support logistics coordination to ensure timely material arrivals.

4. Inventory & Cost Support

Review inventory and usage data to maintain optimal stock levels.

Verify purchase prices, freight charges, and invoice accuracy.

Participate in cycle counts and assist in reconciling variances.

Collaborate with Finance and Supply Chain leadership on cost tracking and reporting.

Support cost and efficiency improvements through accurate data management and supplier collaboration.

5. Reporting & Administration

Prepare and maintain open order reports, shortage summaries, and material tracking logs.

Generate daily or weekly procurement and inventory reports for leadership review.

Ensure purchasing documentation complies with company standards and policies.

Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that enhance accuracy and efficiency in purchasing processes.

Work Activities & Competencies

Information Gathering: Collect and organize purchasing and inventory data from the ERP system and suppliers to support accurate and timely decisions.

Communication & Teamwork: Work closely with suppliers and internal teams—such as production, engineering, finance, and warehousing—to keep materials flowing smoothly.

Systems & Tools: Use ERP systems (Ponderosa / NetSuite) and Excel to enter data needed to update purchase orders, and track deliveries related to accurate inventory levels.

Decision-Making: Prioritize daily purchasing tasks and bring important or urgent issues to the attention of the Director of Supply Chain.

Problem-Solving: Assist in resolving supplier or delivery issues by researching problems and helping find solutions.

Organization & Time Management: Handle multiple purchasing tasks and deadlines while keeping information and records up to date.

Accuracy & Attention to Detail: Double-check data, reports, and purchase orders to ensure everything is correct and follows company standards.

Required Skills and Qualifications

Associate degree in Business, Supply Chain, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.

1–2 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, materials coordination, or planning (internship or co-op experience acceptable).

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data validation).

Familiarity with ERP systems (Ponderosa, NetSuite, or equivalent).

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Highly detail-oriented, dependable, and able to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

Basic understanding of material planning, forecasting, and inventory management principles.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in a manufacturing or distribution environment.

Working knowledge of purchasing principles, cost analysis, and supplier management.

Exposure to inventory control or planning methodologies (such as MRP or demand planning).

Rewarding Compensation and Benefits

Eligible employees can elect to participate in:
• Comprehensive medical benefits coverage, dental plans and vision coverage.
• Health care saving account.
• Short- and long-term disability.
• Life insurance and Critical Illness insurance.
• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EAP).
• Retirement plan (401k) with a generous company match.

The statements used herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by an employee in this position, and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required by an incumbent so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Company.

EEO STATEMENT: The Marwin Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, relationship or association with a protected veteran (spouses or other family members), genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.