Specialist Purchasing

Summary / Objective

The Purchasing Specialist is responsible for planning, purchasing, and scheduling materials to support production and inventory requirements. This position ensures the timely acquisition of goods and services, maintains optimal inventory levels, and manages supplier relationships to achieve cost, quality, and delivery goals. The Buyer–Planner plays a key role in ensuring material availability, supporting production efficiency, and maintaining accurate purchasing data within the ERP system.

Essential Functions

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Prepare, review, and process purchase orders to support manufacturing and inventory requirements.

• Maintain accurate MRP and ERP system data, including purchase orders, pricing, and supplier information.

• Analyze sales history, forecasts, and safety stock levels to maintain optimal inventory availability.

• Utilize MRP and ERP reports to plan material purchases based on lead times, demand variability, and production needs.

• Control inventory levels to meet established service and cost targets.

• Communicate effectively with suppliers to confirm delivery dates, resolve issues, and manage performance expectations.

• Coordinate with internal teams (Customer Care, Production, and Logistics) to ensure timely delivery of materials.

• Monitor and manage on-time delivery performance, taking corrective action when needed.

• Identify and evaluate alternative suppliers to ensure supply continuity and cost efficiency.

• Support continuous improvement efforts related to material planning and purchasing efficiency.

• Maintain the Supplier Evaluation program and publish periodic updates to all approved suppliers.

• Participate in supplier business reviews and assist with sourcing initiatives.

• Adhere to company safety, quality, and compliance standards.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Competencies

• Supply Chain and Procurement Knowledge

• Analytical and Data-Driven Decision Making

• Communication and Negotiation Skills

• Time Management and Prioritization

• ERP/MRP Systems Proficiency

• Customer and Supplier Relationship Management

• Continuous Improvement Mindset

• Ethical Conduct and Professional Integrity

Required Skills / Abilities

• Strong understanding of material requirements planning (MRP) principles.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Word.

• Demonstrated ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.

• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to interpret and analyze supply chain data to make informed decisions.

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Work Environment

This position operates in a professional office environment within a manufacturing facility. Occasional exposure to plant floor conditions may occur when coordinating material or inventory issues.

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to sit, talk, and hear.

• Frequently required to stand, walk, and use hands to handle materials or computer equipment.

• Occasionally lift up to 20 pounds; occasionally lift up to 40 pounds with assistance.

• Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Additional hours may occasionally be required to meet supplier or production deadlines.

Travel

Minimal travel may be required for supplier visits, training, or company meetings.

Required Education and Experience

• College degree required.

• Proficiency in English (reading, writing, and comprehension).

Preferred Education and Experience

• 3 years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment.

• 3 years of materials planning experience.

• Thorough understanding of MRP and ERP systems.

• APICS certification preferred.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Other Duties:

This job description is not designed to cover all activities, duties, or responsibilities. Duties may change at any time with or without notice.

Employment with Habasit America is at-will. Habasit America is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.