Lumber Buyer

Stella-Jones is North America's leading producer of industrial pressure-treated wood products. Responding to the vital infrastructure needs of our economy, we manufacture and distribute railway ties, utility poles, residential lumber and industrial wood products across the continent. The Company’s common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: SJ).

Stella-Jones recruits team members who embody our core values and desire an environment where growth is inspired, dedication is recognized, and achievement is rewarded. Our ever- expanding footprint provides a great prospect for career advancement as we seek to develop our emerging leaders.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Lumber Buyer is responsible for procuring a broad range of lumber products to meet the quality, delivery, and sales needs of the division. This role also develops strategies for managing obsolete and excess inventory to maintain balance and profitability. The ideal candidate combines industry expertise, strong negotiation skills, and effective communication to drive cost-effective procurement and maintain beneficial supplier relationships.

Responsibilities

• Procurement: Purchase lumber from mills across the Western United States and Canada, with awareness of offshore sourcing opportunities.
• Cost Management: Achieve cost-effective and timely procurement by securing products at or below market price on a mill-direct basis.
• Supplier Relationships: Build and maintain strong relationships with mills through site visits and regular communication to secure advantageous terms and reliable supply.
• Inventory Optimization: Collaborate with mills to procure tallies that optimize inventory turnover and product costs.
• Operations Support: Work closely with operations management to ensure smooth plant operations by addressing supply shortages, overages, and inbound freight logistics.
• Market Research: Assist in selling excess and obsolete stock by researching market opportunities and advising the Sales Manager on pricing trends.
• Administrative Duties: Issue purchase orders, review supplier invoices, and prepare reports for monthly inventory meetings, including forecasting market trends and monthly purchasing schedules.
• Market Analysis: Monitor mill production and evaluate market trends to identify opportunities for cost-efficient and reliable lumber purchases.
• Cross-Functional Support: Provide vacation coverage and support to the Lumber Purchasing Group as needed
• Safety Participation: Contribute to company safety initiatives and programs

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business (preferred), or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• 5+ years of experience in lumber purchasing and sales, or equivalent industry experience.
• Bilingual (English & French).
• Proven negotiation skills with expertise in securing favorable vendor terms and market forecasting.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective supplier and team interactions.
• Solid analytical and decision-making capabilities to handle complex variables.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with procurement systems.
• Strong mathematical skills, including the ability to perform calculations and interpret data.
• Detail-oriented with a results-driven mindset.
• Ability to prepare and deliver reports and presentations effectively.

As a Stella-Jones employee, you will enjoy access to excellent benefits and incentives, including:

• Extended health and dental coverage
• Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D)
• Short-Term and Long-Term disability coverage
• Competitive compensation
• Annual Profit Share Program
• Retirement program (RRSP) with generous Company match (150% of employee's 4% contribution)
• Company Share Purchase Program with 10% Company contribution match
• Career advancement opportunities

Stella-Jones is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, provincial, or local laws.