Who We Are:

Modula is the leading US manufacturer of vertical lift modules (VLM) and automated storage and retrieval systems. Modula US has Manufacturing plants in Dayton, OH and Lewiston, ME, and remote locations throughout the US. Our corporate global headquarters is in Italy with many locations around the globe. Modula’s goal is to be an exceptional workplace admired for growing and developing talented employees and leaders, building innovative products through the development of a highly skilled and engaged workforce. 

Modula’s Values: We are culture and value driven; regardless of position and title we are all in all the time. 

• Passion- Proud of our work/Modula, love what you do, positive energy, go the extra mile, engaging
• Pursuit of Excellence- Continuous improvement, committed, attention to detail
• Accountability- Lead by example, follow through, integrity, create trust with team & customers.
• Agility- Flexible & adaptable, embrace change, ability to multi-task, sense of urgency.
• Teamwork- Proactive & effective communication, respect, humility, curious, openminded, diversity

Job Overview: The Purchasing Manager is responsible for overseeing the procurement of raw materials, components, equipment, and services necessary for efficient manufacturing operations. This role ensures supplier quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery while maintaining strong vendor relationships and optimizing inventory levels. The Purchasing Manager will play a critical role in developing and implementing strategic sourcing strategies aligned with business objectives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement procurement strategies to support manufacturing operations, cost-saving initiatives, and supply chain efficiency.
• Source, evaluate, and negotiate contracts with suppliers to secure the best value in terms of cost, quality, and reliability.
• Maintain and develop supplier relationships, ensuring compliance with company policies, industry standards, and manufacturing requirements.
• Analyze market trends, supplier performance, and pricing to identify cost-saving opportunities and mitigate supply chain risks.
• Collaborate with internal departments, including production, engineering, quality assurance, and finance, to ensure alignment of procurement activities with manufacturing needs.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with warehouse teams to optimize stock levels, prevent production disruptions, and reduce excess inventory.
• Lead and mentor a team of buyers and procurement specialists, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, company policies, and industry standards related to procurement and supply chain management.
• Utilize ERP/MRP systems to track procurement activities, generate reports, and improve purchasing efficiency specific to manufacturing operations.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance procurement efficiency, reduce costs, and improve supplier performance.

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, business administration, or a related field; a Master’s degree is a plus.
• 5+ years of experience in purchasing or procurement within the manufacturing industry.
• Strong negotiation skills and experience in contract management.
• Experience communicating and negotiating with local and international suppliers.
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems (SAP preferred) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Knowledge of sourcing strategies, supplier management, and cost reduction techniques.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles, supplier quality management, and continuous improvement methodologies is a plus.

Preferred Skills & Competencies:

• Experience in global sourcing and supplier risk management.
• Familiarity with procurement best practices, including sustainability and ethical sourcing.
• Professional certifications such as CPM (Certified Purchasing Manager) or CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) are a plus.
• Knowledge of ISO, Six Sigma, or other quality management systems relevant to manufacturing procurement.

Work Environment: 

To perform the essential functions of this role, a successful candidate may be required to operate equipment and tools such as a telephone, computer, and other general office equipment. This position may require the ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crawl, speak and listen on a telephone and in-person, and type on a computer and view a computer screen, among others. This position may have visual, hearing, dexterity, and mental demands. Reasonable accommodation may be made, wherever practical, to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role. 

Modula Inc. is an EEO (Equal Employment Opportunity) Employer. Our search and selection process are based on identifying qualified candidates who are highly motivated to grow with our company.  Employment decisions are based on the principles of equal employment opportunity. Recruitment, testing/assessment, selection, and promotion will be administered without regard to race, color, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry or national origin, whistleblower activity, previous assertion of a claim or right under worker’s compensation, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Disclaimer: Where a specific pay range is noted, it is a good faith estimate at the time of this posting.  The actual salary offered will be based on experience, skills, qualifications, market / business considerations, and geographic location.