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Plant Buyer

Corning Inc., Phoenix, AZ, United States


Corning is one of the world’s leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Our Solar business delivers industry-leading, U.S.-made solar components. You will be part of advancing critical U.S. supply chains and delivering unmatched quality and reliability to customers.

Role Purpose
The Plant Buyer supports manufacturing operations by managing procurement of raw materials, non‑production materials, and services, sourcing, supplier relationships and transactional purchasing to ensure supply continuity, cost competitiveness, and supplier performance.

Key Responsibilities

Execute strategic sourcing and tactical buying activities, including supplier selection, RFQ/RFP, bid analysis, negotiations, purchase order placement, and payment follow‑through.

Manage procurement of raw materials, non‑production materials, and services for manufacturing operations.

Negotiate pricing, commercial terms, and supply agreements to meet cost, quality, and delivery objectives.

Collaborate with Planning, Operations, Engineering, and Quality to support material availability, new material introductions, and supplier changes.

Identify and recommend alternate sources to mitigate risk and ensure business continuity.

Monitor supplier performance related to quality, delivery, responsiveness, and cost; drive corrective actions when needed.

Analyze supply risks related to capacity, lead times, and demand changes, and communicate potential issues proactively.

Support supplier audits, quality claim coordination, and resolution of delivery or performance issues.

Maintain accurate purchasing data, documentation, and supplier records within the ERP system.

Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in sourcing processes, supplier performance, and cost management.

Handle daily procurement tasks such as contract signing, PO placement, delivery follow‑up, goods receipt, invoice reconciliation, payment application, and data archiving.

Experiences / Education – Required

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field.

Minimum of 3 years of procurement or sourcing experience within a manufacturing or industrial environment.

Demonstrated experience with supplier sourcing, negotiations, and purchase execution.

Solid understanding of procurement processes, supply continuity, and supplier management.

Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, plant‑based environment.

Experience working within an ERP system (SAP preferred).

Experiences / Education – Preferred

Experience with global manufacturing and business through work or projects.

Experience sourcing direct materials, indirect materials, or a combination of both.

Exposure to manufacturing industries such as solar, renewable energy, electronics, glass, automotive, chemicals, or similar.

Experience supporting cost reduction initiatives and supplier performance improvement efforts.

Certified Purchasing Manager (C.P.M.) or Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), APICS, or similar certification related to Supply Chain.

Additional Skills & Attributes

Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Collaborative, proactive approach with internal and external stakeholders.

Experience working across multiple businesses, divisions, or technologies.

Employment Conditions
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.

Salary range for this position is $69,318.00–$95,313.00 for full‑time status, based on experience, location, and market.

Benefits

Company‑wide bonuses and long‑term incentives tied to key business results.

401(k) with company matching contributions up to 4% of pay when you contribute at least 6%.

Medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company‑paid life insurance, disability, disease management, paid time off, and Employee Assistance Program.

Corning prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations by contacting accommodations@corning.com.

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