Purchasing Agent

Job Title: Purchasing Agent

Position Summary

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and procuring materials, components, and services required to support repair, machining, and engineered equipment operations. This role ensures timely availability of high-quality supplies while optimizing cost, supplier performance, and inventory levels. The ideal candidate has experience in industrial environments, understands technical specifications, and can operate effectively in a fast-paced, job-shop or project-driven setting.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement & Sourcing

• Source and procure raw materials (metals, alloys), machining components, tooling, and MRO (maintenance, repair, and operations) supplies.
• Evaluate supplier capabilities, pricing, lead times, and quality standards.
• Develop and maintain a reliable supplier base for critical and long-lead items.

Vendor Management

• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms with suppliers to achieve cost savings and favorable conditions.
• Monitor vendor performance (quality, delivery, responsiveness) and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Build strategic partnerships with key vendors to support business growth and urgent repair timelines.

Operational Support

• Work closely with engineering, production, and repair teams to interpret technical requirements and specifications.
• Expedite orders to meet urgent customer repair schedules and minimize downtime.
• Support project-based purchasing for complex repair or rebuild jobs.

Inventory & Cost Control

• Maintain optimal inventory levels while avoiding stockouts and excess.
• Track and analyze purchasing trends, pricing fluctuations, and cost-saving opportunities.
• Ensure accurate documentation of purchases, pricing, and supplier records in ERP systems.

Compliance & Quality

• Ensure all purchases meet company quality standards and industry requirements.
• Verify certifications (material test reports, compliance documents) where required.
• Adhere to company policies and relevant regulatory standards.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3–5 years of purchasing/procurement experience in manufacturing, machining, or industrial repair environments.
• Experience with engineered equipment, rotating equipment, or heavy industrial components is highly preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
• Proficiency in ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office (especially Excel).
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills with cross-functional teams and suppliers.
• Analytical mindset with a focus on cost control and efficiency.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in job-shop or repair-focused operations.
• Knowledge of industrial materials (steel grades, alloys, coatings, etc.).
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement practices.
• Professional certifications (e.g., CPSM, CPIM) are a plus.

Work Environment

• Combination of office and shop floor interaction.
• May require occasional supplier visits or coordination across multiple facilities.

Benefits:

• Competitive hourly wage (DOE)
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid holidays and PTO
• Opportunities for overtime and advancement
• Ongoing technical and leadership development

Pay: $22.00 - $26.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Purchasing: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $22 - $26