What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing Assistant position at HARDMAN SIGNS LP?
Job Title: Purchasing Assistant / Expeditor
Location: Houston, Texas (77086)
Type: Full-time, Onsite, Manufacturing Facility
Hardman Signs is a national leader in architectural signage and graphics. We design, manufacture, install, and service high-impact signage solutions for commercial properties, multi-family housing, healthcare facilities, parking garages, and more. We partner with leading construction companies and architectural design firms to bring signage visions to life—from concept to installation.
Job Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented, proactive Purchasing Assistant / Expeditor to support our Purchasing Manager. This hands-on role focuses on order processing, tracking, inventory coordination, discrepancy resolution, and proactive vendor research. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, excels at follow-up, and contributes to operational efficiency through strong organizational and communication skills.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Order Processing & Expediting: Prepare, issue, and track purchase orders (POs) for raw materials, hardware, fabrication supplies, tools, and services. Ensure timely updates and follow-up to meet production needs.
• Inventory Coordination: Monitor stock levels and collaborate closely with inventory and warehouse teams to anticipate shortages and prevent production delays.
• Discrepancy Resolution: Reconcile shipping receipts against purchase orders and invoices; research and resolve shortages, damaged goods, or billing errors.
• Vendor Communication & Research: Serve as a key point of contact for vendors. Proactively research and source items (e.g., identify specific hardware from a photo by inquiring with existing vendors or finding new ones). Maintain strong vendor relationships.
• Documentation & Compliance: Maintain accurate records of purchases, invoices, receipts, and contracts. Ensure compliance with company policies and relevant regulations.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Work closely with Production, Pre-Construction, Design, and Installation teams to understand material needs and support project timelines.
• Administrative Support: Handle filing, data entry in purchasing/ERP systems, and other tasks to support the Purchasing Manager.
Qualifications:Education and Experience Required:
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 2 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, expediting, or administrative support, ideally in a manufacturing or construction environment.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and experience processing POs.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities as a self-starter in a fast-paced setting.
Preferred:
• Experience working with ERP systems (transition experience a plus) or QuickBooks for POs.
• Basic understanding of supply chain logistics and shipping terminology.
• Experience in the signage, architectural, metal fabrication, or construction industry.
• Bilingual Spanish/English is a plus for vendor communications.
Physical Requirements
• Remaining in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for prolonged periods in an office or manufacturing environment.
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers to operate computers and office equipment.
• Occasional movement through the production floor and ability to lift or move items up to 25 lbs. occasionally.
• The ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand.
What We Offer
• Competitive salary based on experience
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Aflac supplemental plans (Disability, Accident, Cancer, Hospital coverage)
• Opportunity to work with a growing team in a creative, entrepreneurial environment