Buyer I in Fort Collins, Colorado at Forney Industries

Forney Industries is one of America’s longest operating family-owned welding and metal working product companies. Forney is celebrating 94 years in business, and introduced the first publicly available arc welder in the 1940’s. With such a longstanding history, it’s safe to say that Forney Industries has been there for welders and metal workers since the beginning of the trade. Headquarters in Fort Collins, Colorado, the company now offers more than 5,000 products for the automotive, hardware, farm and ranch, and do it yourself markets. Distributing products to all 50 states, Forney has an extensive customer network and is committed to providing the highest standard products and customer service possible.

Application Period:

Open date: 11/10/2026

Close date: 12/01/2026

Salary Range $58-$65K

What we offer:

employee benefits including 401K and Profit Sharing. Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Pet insurance. Flex spending accounts as well as other optional plans.

Buyer I is an on-site role in our Ft Collins, CO headquarters and is responsible for sourcing and purchasing goods and services for the company. This position requires a basic understanding of procurement processes, market trends, and supplier relationships. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employer reserves the right to update, modify, or change the duties, responsibilities, or scope of this position as business needs require.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Good analytical and problem-solving: Need to be able to analyze market data, identify cost savings opportunities, and solve problems that arise during the procurement process.
• Good communication: Must be able to communicate effectively with a variety of stakeholders, including suppliers, internal clients, and management; through in-person interactions, online meetings, telephone conversations, and email.
• Negotiation: Can negotiate effectively with suppliers to get the best possible prices, lead times and terms.
• Procurement knowledge: Need to have a basic understanding of procurement processes, regulations, and best practices.
• Software: Need to be proficient in using procurement software, Microsoft Excel, ERP software and other IT tools (NetSuite and/or Stock IQ are preferred).
• Teamwork: Buyers often work independently or as part of a team, so they need to be able to collaborate effectively with others.
• Attention to detail: Detail-oriented to ensure that all aspects of the procurement process are completed accurately and efficiently.
• Problem-solving: Can identify and solve problems that arise during the procurement process.
• Organizational: Be able to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Time management: Be able to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
• Problem-solving: Be able to identify and solve problems that arise during the procurement process.
• Decision-making: Able to make sound decisions based on limited information.
• Flexibility: Ability to adapt to change and be flexible in their approach to the job.
• Reporting: Ability to obtain needed data from ERP system to assess and analysis trends, risks, and opportunities as well as present daily/weekly reports to senior leadership as needed.
• Validation: Be able to validate data and update it in the ERP as needed.

Responsibilities

• Monitor MRP, Kanban or other systems to ensure Purchase Orders are issued at the appropriate Lead Time, Price and Supplier. Ensure the delivery and payment of these Purchase Orders are done on time, to the right location and per the agreed upon terms.
• Prepare and issue Requests for Proposals/Quotes as required. May assist in analyzing and evaluating offers to recommend awarding business to new and existing suppliers.
• Correspond with internal and external customers regarding the status of purchases, and respond to emails and voicemails regarding confirmations, problems, issues, and notices. Provide accurate information, resolve problems, or route to appropriate personnel.
• Build long-term relationships with key suppliers to enhance Forney’s business opportunities. Implement performance management / supplier score cards for all key strategic suppliers.
• Reduce total delivered product cost through negotiation, appropriate supplier selection, freight selection and contracting.
• Monitor and manage inventory levels by utilizing appropriate supplier lead times, Minimum Order Quantities, and Kanban procurement strategies.
• Monitor market trends and identify cost savings opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
• The primary work environment is an office setting. Occasional presence on distribution floor with material moving equipment present.
• Infrequent lifting of 40+ pounds in support of production.
• International and/or domestic travel may be required, but less than 10%.

Qualifications

• Computer literacy required with sufficient knowledge of Microsoft Office applications is mandatory.
• Experience with ERP systems & Inventory planning programs (NetSuite and/or Stock IQ are preferred)
• Previous procurement or supply chain experience in the metalworking industry is preferred.
• >2 years’ experience in a procurement or supply chain management role.
• Negotiation experience or training preferred.
• Good oral and written communication skills are required.
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple projects at the same time.
• Analysis of technical and financial data.
• Attention to detail, the ability to make decisions, and working autonomously.
• Basic contract knowledge, negotiation and project management skills.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.
• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Supply Chain, Materials Management, Operations Management or equivalent preferred. APICS Certifications are a plus.
• A plus if you have Kaizen, Root Cause Analysis, and/or Lean methodology training