Purchasing Manager Automotive Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading and managing day-to-day purchasing operations within ETE’s Materials Management department. This role manages a team of Buyers and other staff to ensure the accurate and timely procurement of parts, materials, and supplies required to support remanufacturing production. The Purchasing Manager ensures purchasing execution aligns with inventory replenishment strategies, supplier commitments, and ERP system parameters. Strategic sourcing is managed outside of this role; however, sourcing activities may be required to support supply continuity.

ETE REMAN is the largest independent aftermarket automatic transmission remanufacturer in the United States. Based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, we’ve been rebuilding transmissions since 1985 — and we’re still growing strong. With more than 900 team members, ETE REMAN is a place where people can build their career, learn new skills, and be part of a team that wins together.

The demand for our transmissions remains strong no matter the economy. Our work reduces waste, keeps vehicles on the road, and helps customers save money.

ETE REMAN is for people who take pride in their work and want to create something real. We’re a team that values quality, honesty, and getting better every single day. You’ll find opportunity here — if you’re ready to learn, grow, and go all-in.

The pace is fast. The expectations are high. And the roadmap? You’ll help draw it. We’re growing quickly, built to last through any market, and still grounded in our family‑owned roots. That means you get the best of both worlds — a tight‑knit, no‑nonsense culture with room to advance and make your mark.

• To be a leader in safety and promote a safety‑first workplace.


• Supervise, coach, and develop a team of Buyers and other related staff; set clear performance expectations and conduct regular performance reviews.


• Oversee day‑to‑day purchase order creation, management, and closure in accordance with ETE replenishment policies and ERP system parameters.


• Ensure purchase orders are placed accurately and timely to support production schedules and warehouse replenishment needs across all locations.


• Monitor and manage open order reports, expediting deliveries and resolving supply disruptions as needed to keep operations running smoothly.


• Maintain purchasing compliance with approved supplier lists, pricing agreements, and internal authorization levels.


• Serve as the primary operational point of contact for suppliers on order fulfillment, delivery performance, and issue resolution.


• Monitor supplier performance metrics including on‑time delivery, fill rates, and quality; elevate concerns as appropriate.


• Support minor sourcing activities such as identifying qualified alternative suppliers when supply continuity requires it, in coordination with the strategic sourcing function.


• Partner with the Data Manager to maintain accurate purchasing master data in Syteline ERP including lead times, MOQs, pricing, and supplier information.


• Oversee invoice discrepancy resolution in coordination with Accounts Payable.


• Provide regular reporting on purchasing activity, open orders, supplier performance, and purchasing KPIs to the Director of Materials Management & SIOP.


• Collaborate with Materials Planning, Warehouse Operations, and Production to align purchasing execution with broader supply chain and SIOP objectives.


• Continuously evaluate and improve purchasing processes, workflows, and tools to increase efficiency and accuracy.


• Support product and item phase‑ins or phase‑outs from a purchasing execution perspective.


• Understands ETE core values and leads by example.

The above list reflects general details necessary to describe the principle and essential function of the position and shall not be construed as the only duties that may be assigned to this position.

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Operations Management, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered.

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive purchasing or procurement experience, preferably in an automotive, remanufacturing, or industrial manufacturing environment.


• Minimum of 2 years of supervisory or team leadership experience.


• Strong working knowledge of ERP purchasing modules; Syteline experience strongly preferred.


• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; ability to interpret purchasing reports, open order data, and supplier performance metrics.


• Solid understanding of purchasing fundamentals including PO management, supplier terms, lead time management, and MOQ structures.


• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a team in a fast‑paced, production‑driven environment.


• Excellent communication and facilitation skills – both oral and written; ability to connect effectively with varying levels of the organization.


• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.


• Positive attitude and willingness to learn and grow professionally.


• Ability to promote and live ETE Values on a daily basis.

At ETE, our core values guide how we work, collaborate, and serve our customers every day. We expect every team member to:

• CARE about quality, our customers, and each other.


• WIN Together by collaborating, supporting one another, and achieving shared goals.


• GO ALL-IN by taking ownership, showing commitment, and giving your best effort every day.


• Get BETTER Every Day by continuously learning, improving, and embracing change.


• CELEBRATE Success by recognizing accomplishments and appreciating the contributions of others.


• Maintain a POSITIVE ATTITUDE by approaching challenges with optimism, professionalism, and respect.


• Deliver RESULTS, Not Reasons by focusing on solutions, accountability, and meaningful outcomes.

Please refer to the attached Physical Requirements Form for the essential physical demands and work environment associated with this position. The attached form is considered part of this job description

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.