At AAM, the POWER is in our people. We believe that an equitable and inclusive workplace benefits everyone, and that the diversity of our Associates drives creativity and innovation. Our global team is made of dreamers, doers and innovators who are Delivering POWER for a safer, brighter and more sustainable tomorrow.

Job Posting Title

Direct Buyer

Job Description Summary

AAM is searching for a Direct Buyer to join our team. This position will be based out of our World Headquarters location in Detroit, MI.

As a Direct Buyer, you will be responsible for owning the strategic sourcing process for seals to support AAM’s Global manufacturing facilities. This includes request for quotation, evaluation of bids, cost breakdown analysis, negotiation, supplier evaluation, sourcing recommendation, and contracting. This role ensures cost-effective sourcing while maintaining quality and delivery standards in line with Tier 1 automotive supplier requirements.

The ideal candidate will have experience using Oracle/Plex ERP systems, a background sourcing for automotive seals, and has advanced skills with Microsoft Excel formulas.

Job Description

• Manage the full lifecycle of contracts and purchase orders (POs), including expirations, updates, line closures, and issue resolution (e.g., past-due POs, invoice discrepancies, freight charges, cost recoveries).

• Implement the global seal sourcing strategy using the approved supplier base, consolidating strategic suppliers to reduce costs while ensuring quality and delivery performance.

• Analyze supplier cost structures and market trends to identify cost-saving opportunities; perform cost breakdowns and support development of cost models.

• Lead cost and price negotiations and establish long-term supplier agreements to drive value and improve supplier performance.

• Develop and lead supplier relationships to meet cost, quality, and delivery goals; ensure compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and AAM standards.

• Conduct technical sourcing reviews with engineering and quality teams to ensure alignment with product requirements.

• Support VA/VE initiatives and cost reduction efforts to achieve budget and business plan targets.

• Coordinate with suppliers and logistics teams to maintain optimal inventory levels and prevent supply disruptions.

• Collaborate on sourcing strategies for new product development to ensure timely supplier readiness.

• Contribute to procurement budgeting and provide monthly spend forecasts to finance.

• Partner cross-functionally with engineering, finance, manufacturing, and program teams to align sourcing efforts with company objectives.

• All other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or similar.

• 2-5 years of experience in purchasing, sourcing, or procurement within the automotive industry or related industry.

• Experience in ERP systems.

• Ability to travel - up to 20% as required.

About AAM:

As a leading global Tier 1 Automotive and Mobility Supplier, AAM designs, engineers and manufactures Driveline and Metal Forming technologies to support electric, hybrid and internal combustion vehicles. Headquartered in Detroit with over 80 facilities in 18 countries, we are Bringing the Future Faster for a safer and more sustainable tomorrow. To learn more, visit AAM.com.

Why Join #TeamAAM:

As a member of #TeamAAM, you’ll get to make a difference on day one. From your first day with us, you’ll have the opportunity to grow, embrace challenges, build your skills, and bring your authentic self to work every day, all while helping to shape the future of mobility for AAM…and the world.

AAM will not discriminate against any Associate or applicant for employment because of age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. AAM will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed, and that Associates are treated equally during employment, without regard to their age, race, color, gender, religion, weight, height, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or other characteristic protected by law. For the Disabled Job Seeker: We offer reasonable accommodations for qualified disabled individuals who are applicants for employment. To request assistance or accommodations, please e-mail TalentAcquisition@aam.com. AAM is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.