What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing Agent position at Patrick Industries, Inc.?
Business Unit Name:
Collins and Company (BU118)
Job Title:
Purchasing Agent
Department:
Office
Reports to:
Manager
Work Location:
Elkhart, IN
Classification:
Hourly – Non-exempt
Job Summary:
The Purchasing Agent supports the day-to-day purchasing and procurement functions for BU118 and other assigned Patrick Industries business units. This position is responsible for coordinating material orders, maintaining accurate purchasing data, monitoring supplier performance, and assisting with inventory control activities to ensure timely, cost-effective delivery of materials and components.
Working under general supervision, the Purchasing Agent exercises sound judgment within established guidelines and ensures adherence to purchasing policies and procedures. This role provides critical administrative and operational support to the purchasing and production teams while contributing to the efficiency and success of the organization.
Patrick Industries is a leading manufacturer and distributor of component products and building materials serving the RV, Marine, and Housing markets throughout the United States. With locations in 23 states, Patrick upholds a strong network of meaningful relationships with our brands and customers.
Responsibilities and Duties include, but are not limited to:
- Prepare and issue purchase orders by verifying specifications, quantities, and pricing.
- Track and expedite orders to ensure on-time delivery of materials.
- Verify receipt of items by comparing items received to items ordered; assist in resolving discrepancies or shortages.
- Obtain price quotes and updated supplier information; maintain accurate cost and lead-time data in the ERP system.
- Support purchasing planning and control by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing data and trends.
- Maintain supplier information and assist in managing supplier relationships with professionalism and accuracy.
- Collaborate with production, warehouse, logistics, and sales teams to coordinate purchasing and inventory activities.
- Monitor and manage satellite facility inventory levels, ensuring proper turns and cost efficiency.
- Assist with managing consignment inventory, including preparation of purchase orders and receipt of goods.
- Maintain accurate ERP data (Microsoft D365 or Sage) for all SKUs, including part numbers, standard costs, and lead times.
- Support cycle counts and semi-annual physical inventories, identifying and resolving discrepancies.
- Work closely with logistics to help ensure cost-effective freight options and timely delivery.
- Assist with cost-reduction initiatives, process improvements, and supplier performance tracking.
- Provide excellent internal and external customer service, maintaining positive working relationships.
- Perform other related duties as assigned to support the purchasing and operations teams.
Qualifications and Skills:
- 2–4 years of experience in purchasing, materials coordination, or related manufacturing support role preferred.
- Familiarity with ERP systems (Microsoft D365 or Sage) and strong Microsoft Excel skills.
- Ability to analyze inventory levels and support strategies to optimize turns and reduce costs.
- Strong organizational and communication skills with high attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrated initiative, teamwork, and follow-through.
- Commitment to Patrick Industries’ “BETTER Together” values—Balance, Excellence, Trust, Teamwork, Empowerment, and Respect.
Physical Requirements / Work Environment:
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- May occasionally be required to lift or move materials weighing up to 25 lbs.
- Standard office environment with regular interaction across departments and suppliers.