What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchaser position at Great Lakes Landscape Design?
About the Role
Great Lakes Landscape Design is seeking a detail-driven, proactive Purchasing Agent to play a critical role in the success of our landscape installation and maintenance operations. This position sits at the intersection of operations, finance, and production, ensuring that every project is accurately priced, properly supplied, and delivered on schedule.
If you thrive in fast-paced environments, enjoy building strong vendor relationships, and take pride in cost control and operational excellence, this role offers real ownership and impact.
What You’ll Be Responsible For
Strategic Purchasing & Cost Control
- Purchase all materials for landscape installs and maintenance, including nursery stock, hardscape materials, irrigation, lighting, audio, mulch, and specialty items
- Manage pricing accuracy within LMN to ensure estimates remain current and profitable
- Negotiate vendor pricing, volume discounts, and early-pay incentives
- Identify opportunities for bulk purchasing and manage inventory levels accordingly
Scheduling & Coordination
- Maintain and adjust the landscape installation schedule based on material availability
- Ensure all required materials are on site prior to project start
- Coordinate deliveries throughout project progression
- Communicate schedule changes clearly and daily with production teams
Quality & Vendor Management
- Uphold company quality standards by ensuring all materials meet specifications prior to installation
- Visit suppliers, evaluate material quality, and build long-term vendor relationships
- Track and minimize plant mortality through proper sourcing and handling
Inventory, Systems & Process
- Execute purchase orders daily and ensure accurate receiving and tagging of materials by job
- Conduct physical inventory and reconcile adjustments in QuickBooks
- Maintain and update material catalog
- Schedule meeting agendas and post-meeting notes
Collaboration & Accountability
- Participate in weekly production schedule meetings, direct report meetings, and monthly financial reviews
- Manage purchasing activities within approved budgets
What We’re Looking For
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Proven negotiation skills and attention to detail
- Team-oriented mindset with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
- Customer- and quality-focused approach
- Problem-solver who can adapt quickly in a dynamic environment
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs consistently
- Valid Michigan driver’s license
Why Join Great Lakes Landscape Design?
Competitive wages
Year-round employment
Health, dental, and vision insurance
401K with a 3% company match
Paid time off (PTO)
Paid holidays
Professional growth & development opportunities
Work Location: In person