Purchasing Agent

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Purchasing Agent will prepare, coordinate, and expedite materials and equipment procurement based on project schedules. This includes reviewing and following up on shipment timing and communicating with project principals as to the status of delivery. The agent will also secure cost-effective and negotiated vendor quotes for accurate estimation of prospective projects.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

• Prepare written inquiries or obtain verbal or written quotes for vendor-supplied items and subcontracts in compliance with requisitions and/or specifications.
• Receive vendor bids and evaluate.
• Research and evaluate vendors considering price, quality, delivery date, distribution capabilities, reliability, service, support, past performance of vendor, etc. to ascertain best vendor for Company.
• Negotiate prices, terms, and conditions of and place purchase orders with vendors. Negotiate and issue purchase change orders.
• Expedite awarded purchase orders when necessary to ensure timely delivery.
• Communicate with managers/foremen/vendors throughout the job process to confirm job begin and end dates, materials, and delivery dates.
• Coordinate invoice issues with vendor and accounting; delivery requirements with vendor and supervision; quality requirements with Engineering and Quality Control.
• Prepare all required data and enter them for each purchase order.
• Confirm shipment and delivery of vendor equipment to the job site or shop promptly.
• Negotiate and administer contracts with suppliers and vendors.
• Establish and maintain contact with vendors. Meet with sales and vendor representatives.
• Estimate small jobs (i.e., brackets, stainless steel covers, etc.) for walk-in customers.
• Maintain knowledge of vendors and equipment available in the steel fabrication industry.
• Performs other tasks and duties of a similar nature and scope as required. Provide support to peers.

QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS / EXPERIENCE:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred in a Purchasing related field. Experience instead of education may be considered.
• Minimum of 3+ years of Purchasing experience preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and comprehend blueprints.
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Mathematical skills.
• Demonstrates good judgment in problem-solving/analysis.

• Excellent customer/employee service skills.
• Consistently demonstrates the ability to recognize and deal with priorities.
• Performs duties in an independent manner with minimal direction and supervision.
• Keeps management informed on all problematic issues.
• Seeks guidance and direction, as necessary, for the performance of duties.

• Procurement/vendor inspection techniques and requirements.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• This position is largely a sedentary role and operates primarily in a professional office environment. Occasionally, this position is required to move or traverse about the shop, tool room, and/or material yard.
• When in the shop, tool room, and/or material yard, this position will be exposed to heat and cold, humidity, weather conditions, dust, fumes, and high noise levels. Personal Protection Equipment is required, such as safety shoes, safety glasses, hard hats, and ear plugs.
• This position routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines.
• Frequent communication with managers, foremen, contractors and sub-contractors, vendors, and other individuals regarding quotes, materials, equipment, concerns or issues, invoicing, etc. is required. Must be able to express or exchange accurate information in these situations by means of the spoken and written word, or to convey detailed spoken and written instructions accurately.
• Must be able to observe blueprints and other written and photographic materials that include distinguishing varying colors and/or hues. Clarity of vision at 24 inches or less is necessary.