What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing Agent position at IPSUMM Inc.?
Company Description
IPSUMM is a New Hampshire–based engineering firm specializing in manufacturing automation, custom machinery, system integration, and precision mechanical design. Our team delivers high-quality, innovative solutions for clients across multiple industrial sectors. As our operations continue to expand, we are seeking an experienced Purchasing Agent to support our engineering and production teams through efficient, strategic sourcing and procurement.
Role Description
The Purchasing Agent will be responsible for sourcing fabricated mechanical components, coordinating with machine shops, and procuring commercial items such as motors, drives, relays, sensors, and other electrical and mechanical components. The ideal candidate has strong supplier relationships, a technical understanding of manufactured parts, and the ability to manage cost, quality, and lead time effectively.
Key Responsibilities
- Source, quote, and purchase fabricated parts from local and regional machine shops.
- Procure commercial components including motors, gearboxes, drives, PLCs, relays, sensors, bearings, fasteners, and more.
- Read and understand engineering drawings, CAD models, and bills of materials to ensure accurate procurement.
- Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure quality, on-time delivery, and competitive pricing.
- Evaluate supplier capabilities and negotiate terms, pricing, and lead times.
- Track purchase orders, delivery schedules, and inventory levels to support production timelines.
- Work closely with engineering and assembly teams to resolve issues related to materials, part quality, or sourcing.
- Maintain procurement records and contribute to cost-saving initiatives.
- Manage RFP/RFQ processes for new projects or specialized components.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- 3 years of purchasing experience in manufacturing, engineering, industrial equipment, or automation.
- Hands-on experience sourcing machined, welded, or fabricated components from job shops.
- Proficient in managing Purchase Orders and overall purchasing processes. Experience in Procurement and sourcing of materials
- Skilled in Contract Negotiation and vendor communication
- Strong familiarity with commercial electrical and mechanical components (e.g., motors, drives, relays, sensors, pneumatics).
- Ability to read mechanical drawings and understand tolerances, materials, and fabrication processes.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and supplier management skills.
- High attention to detail with strong organizational and time-management abilities.
- Experience using ERP or MRP systems for purchasing and inventory tracking and Microsoft Office Suite (preferred).
- Ability to work in a fast-paced project-driven environment.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Health, dental, and retirement benefits.
- Opportunities for professional growth within a rapidly expanding engineering firm.
- Collaborative environment with direct access to engineering expertise.
- Flexible and supportive company culture.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter to s.landry@ipsumm.com with the subject line: Purchasing Agent Application