Buyer I (ref2653G)

As a Buyer I at Elbit Systems of America, your main responsibilities will include evaluating requisitions for custom nonstandard items, determining the best sources of supply, negotiating with suppliers for the best pricing and delivery schedules, and actively seeking cost reduction opportunities. You'll need to interface with program management and production teams to ensure timely material deliveries, all while adhering to company and government regulations.

To qualify for the Buyer I role at Elbit Systems of America, you need at least an Associate's degree along with 1-3 years of functional experience in procurement or a similar field. Additionally, a Bachelor's degree is preferred, and experience in the aerospace or military industry is highly beneficial. Familiarity with federal acquisition regulations will also be a plus.

A successful Buyer I at Elbit Systems of America should have strong negotiation skills, a solid understanding of military specifications, and working knowledge of FAR/DFAR. The ability to analyze market conditions and commodity knowledge is crucial for driving cost savings while maintaining product quality and delivery schedules.

The Buyer I role is integral to achieving Elbit Systems of America's goals by ensuring that materials are sourced efficiently and cost-effectively. This position directly affects production schedules and inventory management, which are essential for meeting program timelines and operational objectives, ultimately supporting the company's mission of safety and security.

Absolutely! Elbit Systems of America encourages continuous improvement and professional development. As a Buyer I, you may have opportunities to lead improvement initiatives and gain exposure to various procurement processes, which can pave the way for advancement to higher procurement roles or management positions within the organization.

When answering this question, highlight your direct experience with procurement procedures, mentioning specific industries or projects. Focus on your role in evaluating suppliers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring compliance with regulations, emphasizing how these experiences have prepared you for the Buyer I position at Elbit Systems of America.

Discuss your negotiation techniques, such as preparing thoroughly with data analysis, understanding supplier motivations, and maintaining strong relationships. It's essential to provide an example that demonstrates your ability to achieve favorable outcomes while ensuring mutual benefits for both the company and the supplier.

Explain your approach to resolving delivery problems, focusing on communication and collaboration with suppliers, and other relevant departments to find quick solutions. Provide a specific example where you successfully navigated a delivery challenge, ensuring production timelines were met.

Demonstrate your understanding of FAR/DFAR by discussing key regulations that impact procurement in the defense sector. Share how your previous experience has required adherence to these regulations, and explain their significance in supplier selection and purchasing decisions.

Choose a specific instance where you identified cost-saving opportunities within your procurement practices. Discuss the steps you took to implement changes, the outcomes you achieved, and how it benefitted your company, particularly in a similar industry context to that of Elbit Systems of America.

Describe your organizational strategies for handling multiple orders, such as utilizing project management tools or methods to track deadlines and supplier communications. Highlight your ability to remain flexible and responsive to changes or urgent requests from various departments.

Acknowledge potential challenges such as navigating regulatory compliance, managing supplier relationships, and keeping up with market changes. Then, discuss how your skills and proactive approach equip you to tackle these challenges effectively.

Communicate your enthusiasm for the role by tying your skills and experiences to Elbit Systems' mission and values. Mention your interest in supporting defense and security initiatives and how you admire the company's commitment to quality and innovation in procurement.

Discuss your methodology for evaluating supplier quality, including inspecting samples, reviewing certifications, and maintaining ongoing communication with suppliers. Emphasize how this relates to meeting Elbit Systems of America's standards for performance and reliability.

Explain the importance of collaboration in procurement, describing how you involve other departments, such as engineering and production, to ensure alignment on requirements and expectations. Provide an example of a successful cross-departmental initiative where teamwork was crucial.