Title: Purchasing Agent, Preconstruction

Role: The Purchasing Agent of Preconstruction will play a crucial role in all preconstruction activities by facilitating the procurement process for materials, equipment, and services necessary for construction projects. This role will be expected to research suppliers, negotiate contracts, ensuring timely deliveries, and manage costs to support efficient project planning and execution.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Lead the value engineering process; work with stakeholders, architects, manufacturers, and end users to provide alternate products and methods that will result in cost savings without sacrificing functionality, quality, or performance
• Collaborate with project teams to estimate costs associated with materials and services required for construction projects
• Verify purchase requests from project team, clarifying unclear items, and recommending alternatives
• Negotiate terms, contracts, and prices with suppliers to secure favorable agreements
• Secure competitive bids from suppliers, helping to control project costs and avoid budget overruns
• Establish and maintain relationships with vendors, ensuring reliability and quality of supplies
• Work within budget constraints, seeking cost-effective solutions without compromising quality
• Source and purchase construction materials, ensuring they meet project specifications and standards
• Stay informed about market trends, pricing, and availability of construction-related materials and services
• Identify and mitigate potential risks related to the procurement process
• Collaborate with project managers, estimating, and other stakeholders to align procurement activities with project timelines and goals
• Review material take-offs to ensure accuracy and timely requests for quotes
• Negotiate and purchase General Condition items in advance of job
• Maintain accurate records of procurement activities, contracts, and vendor communications
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, policies, and industry standards
• Work to secure materials and services that meet quality standards and project requirements
• Work with the Claims Department to address any issues related to the procurement process, such as product defects or disputes
• Seek opportunities to optimize the procurement process, improve efficiency, and reduce costs

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field such as Business, Supply Chain Management, Construction Management, or a related discipline preferred

Skills:

• Ability to negotiate favorable terms, contracts, and prices with suppliers
• Ability to interpret and change product specifications 
• Capacity to analyze cost estimates, market trends, and budget implications
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings
• Ability to perform quantity take-offs helpful
• Effective communication with vendors, project teams, architects, subcontractors, and other stakeholders
• Strong organizational abilities to manage multiple tasks and timelines
• Capability to research and evaluate potential suppliers and market conditions
• Understanding of budgeting, cost estimation, and financial implications in procurement
• Ability to identify and address challenges in the procurement process
• Thorough attention to detail to ensure accuracy in contracts, specifications, and records
• Skill in establishing and maintaining positive relationships with vendors and stakeholders
• Capacity to make informed decisions considering project requirements and budget constraints
• Familiarity with construction materials, their specifications, and industry standards
• Proficiency in managing contracts, understanding terms, and ensuring compliance
• Ability to identify and mitigate risks associated with procurement activities
• Flexibility to adapt to changing project requirements, market conditions, and unforeseen challenges

Experience:

• Minimum of 4 years experience in the construction industry. This should include work in procurement, project management, or related roles
• Familiarity with project coordination and collaboration with project managers, estimating, and other stakeholders
• Practical experience in negotiating contracts, terms, and prices with suppliers
• Experience in establishing and maintaining relationships with vendors, ensuring reliability and quality of supplies
• Experience in managing budgets and costs associated with procurement activities
• APICS, ISM, and Six Sigma Certification a plus