Buyer
Kindred Motorworks
Company Overview
Kindred is a rapidly growing, venture backed start-up focused on unlocking the conversion of gasoline vehicles to electric using our technology and scale.
We are marketing folks, technicians, software developers, mechanical engineers, designers, painters, and car lovers. We love a whiff of gasoline and we geek out about the torque provided by electric motors. Above all we believe the world is a better place with vintage cars out on the road.
We strive to create a meaningful workplace at Kindred, which means something different for each of our team members. For some, it’s getting these immortal vehicles on the road. For others it’s the portion of revenue we donate to our local community for every vehicle sold. For many at Kindred, it’s the inclusive work environment we’ve created.
Our cars create joyful experiences for our customers and immense pride for our team. If you can match our passion, values, and work ethic, we want you!
Position Summary
The Buyer position will report to the Procurement Manager and will manage day-to-day purchasing activities for parts, materials, and components used in vehicle builds. This is a great opportunity for someone early in their procurement career who is ready to take ownership of sourcing tasks, vendor communications, and PO tracking in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
The ideal candidate is highly detail-oriented, with a natural drive to complete checklists, meet deadlines, and stay organized in a fast-paced environment. They take pride in following through on tasks from start to finish, but they’re also not afraid to raise a hand, ask clarifying questions, or step outside their comfort zone to solve problems and find accurate solutions. This person enjoys the satisfaction of keeping things on track and moving forward yet remains flexible and resourceful when challenges arise. They value accuracy, collaboration, and efficiency — and are motivated by being part of a high-functioning, mission-driven team.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
- Understand the design aesthetics and part requirements for each new build
- Issue purchase orders for parts, materials, and suppliers in support of production schedules and R&D needs
- Communicate with suppliers to confirm lead times, order status, and delivery timelines
- Maintain accurate data in ERP systems, including pricing, part numbers, and supplier information
- Monitor open orders and follow up on outstanding or late deliveries
- Assist in sourcing alternate suppliers for off-the shelf parts or replacements
- Help track inventory levels and reorder materials to ensure production continuity
- Resolve minor discrepancies in invoices, pricing or delivery with suppliers
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders (Engineering, Vehicle Development, Production and Finance) to meet procurement needs
- Support the Procurement Manager and Supply Chain team with administrative tasks, vendor coordination and data entry
- Perform other purchasing and administrative duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)
- Minimum 1-2 years of experience in purchasing, procurement or supply chain support role
- Familiarity with manufacturing or assembly environments
- Experience purchasing electromechanical components
- Strong attention to detail, time management, and follow-through
- Comfortable communicating with vendors and internal teams
- Experience using ERP/MRP systems (Fishbowl or similar a plus)
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel, including basic formulas and spreadsheet navigation
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
Desired Skills
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain or related field preferred
- Experience purchasing motor vehicle components
- Experience with PTC Arena/Onshape or similar PLM
- Experience with Fishbowl or similar ERP
- Experience with Retool
- Automotive/Medical Device/EE purchasing preferred
Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.
The work environment may include exposure to noise, fumes, and heat. Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times in accordance with safety regulations.
Walking, sitting, standing, bending, and stooping. Lifting, carrying, or pushing/pulling supplies, materials, equipment and/or items weighing up to 75 pounds. Clean and well-organized unconditioned shop environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but at times requires ear plugs, use of eye protection, and/or occasional use of a respirator. Working at a computer for up to 8 hours per day.
Note
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.
The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.