Job Detail: Bulk Materials Buyer - Wood Residuals

Job Order #13629

Description:

Walker Elliott has partnered with our client to locate a Bulk Material Buyer responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring wood residuals, such as recycled and renewable bulk materials across the company's operations, including WOCC (Waxed Old Corrugated Container), MDF fiber, charcoal fines, and starch binders.

The role can be in Texas, Georgia, Kentucky, or Nevada.  The Buyer will be responsible for building a sustainable and cost-efficient supply chain that supports waste reduction, upcycling, and the conversion of by-products into usable feedstock. This position requires frequent travel across North America to visit suppliers, recycling facilities, and manufacturing sites.

RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

1. Source, negotiate, and purchase bulk feedstocks such as WOCC, MDF fiber, charcoal fines, starch, and other designated materials.
2. Build and maintain supplier relationships within recycling, waste-diversion, and commodity-processing networks to ensure consistent, high-quality supply.
3. Identify and implement upcycling opportunities that convert fall-down or waste materials into usable raw inputs, reducing costs and environmental impact.
4. Collaborate with Plant Managers and Operations teams to forecast material requirements and manage inventory and logistics.
5. Monitor commodity markets and sustainability regulations impacting fiber, organics, and alternative fuels.
6. Negotiate pricing, contracts, and logistics to meet target cost and service objectives.
7. Drive continuous improvement in materials utilization, supplier diversification, and waste-to-value initiatives.
8. Maintain purchasing documentation, prepare reports, and ensure compliance with company policies and quality standards.
9. Perform other related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business, Environmental Science, or related field preferred. Equivalent experiences may be considered.
• 5+ years purchasing or supply-chain experience in waste management, recycling, renewable materials, pulp and paper, biomass, or similar heavy materials industries.
• Proven track record in supplier negotiation and vendor relationships management.
• Knowledge of WOCC recycling, MDF and sawdust fiber recovery, and starch-based applications.
• Demonstrated experience converting waste streams into usable materials (preferred).
• Proficiency with ERP systems (Oracle Cloud, SAP, or equivalent) for purchase order management, inventory monitoring, and cost reconciliation across multiple sites.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint) for data analysis, reporting, and communication.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with plant teams, vendors, and clients.
• High attention to detail and strong time management skills.
• Must be willing and able to travel frequently throughout North America to meet suppliers, inspect materials, and support site-level initiatives.

Do not apply unless you are authorized to work in the United States for any employer as client company cannot sponsor or transfer visas at this time.

Walker Elliott is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For additional information, please email your resume to resumes@walker-elliott.com or apply online.