What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing Agent position at American Printing House for the Blind?
Purchasing Agent
Location
Hybrid - Louisville, KY
About the Role
Reporting to the Director of Supply Chain Management, this role owns the purchasing process, ensuring that all applicable procurement policies and procedures are followed both internally and externally. Responsible for the timely and cost-effective procurement of materials, supplies, and services for APH.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the full procurement cycle, including vendor research, RFQs/RFPs, quote analysis, contract negotiation, purchase order creation, and supplier selection to achieve optimal cost, quality, and delivery outcomes.
- Build and maintain strong vendor relationships, monitor supplier performance, review vendor scorecards, and identify alternative sourcing options when needed.
- Coordinate material requirements and delivery schedules, including large and blanket purchase orders, to ensure inventory availability while minimizing cash outlay.
- Collaborate with APH departments to identify purchasing needs, support budgeting efforts, resolve procurement issues, and provide sourcing recommendations.
- Maintain accurate procurement records and ERP data, including purchase orders, contracts, vendor files, part histories, transactions, receipts, and negotiation documentation.
- Resolve vendor-related issues such as late deliveries, shortages, rejected shipments, payment discrepancies, and service contract concerns, while serving as a departmental backup as needed.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Management, Business, Engineering, or another related field.
- 3 years’ experience in negotiating with vendors.
Note: A combination of education, training, and experience may be considered when competency in the role is demonstrated.
Preferred Qualifications
- American Purchasing Society, APICS, or ISM Certification preferred.
- Experience working with SAP or other ERP systems in a manufacturing environment is required.
- Knowledge of and background in MRP, supply chain, production management, and project engineering required. Knowledge of low vision and blindness
About APH
At the American Printing House for the Blind (APH), we believe access to the right tools and information at the right time can change lives. Every day, we work to break down barriers and empower students, families, adults, and educators—creating a future that belongs to everyone.
From braille and large-type books to cutting-edge digital tools, our products and services reach people who are blind or low vision across the U.S. and beyond. If you're passionate about quality, innovation, and impact—you belong here.
Compensation & Benefits
$62,000 - $78,000 annually (based on experience and qualifications)
Benefits Highlight
- Employer subsidized insurance (with family planning benefits)
- HSA and FSA options with company contribution
- 4 weeks PTO 11 paid holidays
- 401(k) plan with company match and immediate vesting
- Competitive dental and vision plans
- Company-provided short-term disability and basic life insurance
- Voluntary life and accidental death & disability insurance
- Health and well-being initiatives
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer
- Voluntary pet insurance
Accessibility & Inclusion
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities. APH is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified candidates.
Apply for a Career that Takes You to New Heights
Salary : $62,000 - $78,000