Purchasing Agent

Primary Purpose

Responsible for sourcing and acquiring goods and services that are not maintained in the master material list by identifying potential suppliers, evaluating their offerings, negotiating contracts and ensuring timely delivery of products while maintaining cost-effectiveness and quality standards. Often works closely with internal departments to build the scope of work, locate and source materials and services on their behalf, plus project and supplier management. This position also works with suppliers and contractors to resolve order discrepancies, such as incorrect pricing, obtaining proof of delivery, tracking deliveries, etc.

Major Duties & Responsibilities

1. Working with internal stakeholders to build the scope of work, run "Requests for" (RFx), negotiate and award based on cost-effectiveness and quality standards of low volume, low risk or short-term contracted goods and services to meet operational needs. Sourcing and procuring non-inventory goods and services based on departmental needs. Identifying, evaluating and qualifying new suppliers; maintaining supplier relationships. Monitoring and tracking project-based purchases and ensuring alignment with budgets and timelines. Ensuring compliance with company Procurement policies and regulatory requirements.
2. Helping resolve Accounts Payable (A/P) invoice discrepancies including incorrect pricing, proof of delivery and tracking, missing and misapplied invoices, etc.
3. Documenting and reporting on cost avoidance and cost savings based on Procurement activities, Procure-to-Pay (P2P) related key performance indicators (KPIs) including open Purchase Order reporting and maintenance, on-time delivery and expediting as needed.
4. Training internal employees who are responsible for creating requisitions in the Procure-to-Pay (P2P) process and providing feedback to internal customers, outside suppliers and peers.
5. Maintaining safe and positive work environment in compliance with OSHA, company standards, local, state and federal requirements.

Qualifications

• Associates degree in relevant field or 3 - 5 years equivalent work experience required.
• 3 - 5 years' relevant experience. Experience in purchasing/parts room inventory, vendor relations, negotiations and/or contracting.
• Excellent customer service, inventory management, purchasing, supply chain, financial or warehouse management software such as Oracle, Microsoft Office applications.
• Proficiency in Oracle (ERP) systems and the ability to train others.
• Proven track record in supplier negotiation and project coordination.
• Strong negotiation, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, both written and verbal and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work cross-functionally.
• Knowledge of procurement best practices and contract management.
• Role may serve as a mentor or informal lead to Purchasing Coordinators.
• Position is expected to operate with a higher degree of autonomy and decision-making authority.
• Occasional travel to local non-processing plant locations, suppliers or infrequently to plants in other states for familiarization.

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