Purchasing Specialist

AP Professionals has partnered with a long standing, locally owned, electronics manufacturer in search of a Purchasing Specialist! Open due to retirement. The Purchasing Specialist will learn from the current specialist, and will be responsible for supporting purchasing functions, including managing suppliers and related activities to optimize costs, lead times, and on-time delivery to enhance customer satisfaction. Prior experience and a can-do attitude is required for this role!This position is a direct hire, full-time opportunity that is onsite in Rochester, NY.ResponsibilitiesAssesses vendors based on criteria such as pricing, reliability, capabilities, and past transaction history.Keeps detailed pricing records and other vendor documentation up to date.Collaborate with purchasing and sales teams to resolve data validation errors and purchase order discrepancies that may delay merchandise receipt.Prepares purchase orders by verifying specifications and pricing, seeking supplier recommendations for substitutes as needed, and securing approval from the requesting department.Engages with vendors to gather and negotiate information on products or services, including price, availability, and delivery timelines.Manages orders across multiple suppliers, monitoring and expediting as necessary to ensure timely fulfillment.Reviews incoming requisitions, verifying against inventory levels, clarifying unclear items, and recommending alternatives or existing inventory when appropriate.Accurately enters all validated purchasing details into the company's management system.Maintains direct communication with suppliers on orders, confirmations, shipping instructions, missing or incorrect invoices, overdue purchase orders and deliveries, RMAs, and related issues.Verifies receipt of ordered items by matching received items to purchase orders, addressing any shipment discrepancies with suppliers.Monitors bulk inventory levels, reordering as needed based on minimum thresholds, and manages distribution of bulk purchases.EducationAssociate's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience in a related field.Experience3+ years of experience in a purchasing role within a fast-paced, multitasking environment, with a background in negotiating and managing various types of contracts with multiple vendors and suppliers.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with ERP systems, with an ability to quickly learn new software.