Purchasing Manager

Purchasing Manager

Department: Operations / Procurement
Location: Rahway, NJ (Headquarters)

Company Overview

SM Electric Group, Inc. is a full-service union electrical construction contractor specializing in utility, industrial, and wireless infrastructure projects. The company is known for delivering high-quality projects safely, on time, and within budget, with a strong emphasis on professionalism, integrity, and customer satisfaction.

Position Summary

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for leading all procurement and supply chain activities across the organization. This role ensures the timely, cost-effective, and quality-driven acquisition of materials, equipment, and subcontracted services to support electrical construction projects in utility, industrial, and wireless markets.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience in construction procurement, vendor management, and electrical materials sourcing, with the ability to operate in a fast-paced, project-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Procurement & Sourcing

• Develop and execute procurement strategies aligned with project schedules and company goals
• Source and procure electrical materials (e.g., switchgear, conduit, transformers, wire/cable, substations components) and construction services
• Analyze project requirements, drawings, and specifications to determine material needs
• Ensure timely delivery of materials to job sites to avoid project delays

Vendor & Subcontractor Management

• Build and maintain relationships with key suppliers, manufacturers, and subcontractors
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts to achieve cost savings and favorable conditions
• Evaluate vendor performance based on cost, quality, delivery, and reliability
• Maintain and expand a qualified vendor database

Cost Control & Budgeting

• Collaborate with estimating and project management teams to align purchasing with project budgets
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and implement value engineering solutions
• Track market trends, material pricing, and supply chain risks

Inventory & Logistics

• Oversee inventory levels and warehouse coordination (if applicable)
• Implement systems to track materials, usage, and waste reduction
• Coordinate logistics and transportation of materials to multiple job sites

Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure procurement activities comply with company policies, contracts, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain accurate records of purchase orders, contracts, and supplier agreements
• Support audits and reporting requirements

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Project Managers, Estimators, and Field Operations teams
• Support bid efforts by obtaining vendor pricing and lead times
• Participate in project planning meetings to anticipate procurement needs

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Construction Management, Business, or related field (preferred)
• 5–10 years of purchasing/procurement experience in construction, electrical contracting, or infrastructure projects
• Strong knowledge of electrical materials, utility construction, or industrial systems
• Proven experience negotiating contracts and managing vendor relationships
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP/procurement systems
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Experience

• Experience in utility, substation, or transmission & distribution projects
• Familiarity with union environments and large-scale infrastructure work
• Knowledge of regional suppliers in the Northeast

Key Competencies

• Strategic sourcing & negotiation
• Cost management & financial acumen
• Attention to detail
• Problem-solving & decision-making
• Strong communication and relationship management
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Benefits (Typical)

• Competitive salary and performance incentives
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development and training opportunities

Why Join SM Electric

• Established reputation in electrical construction with decades of experience
• Strong safety-first culture and commitment to quality
• Opportunity to work on complex, large-scale infrastructure projects
• Collaborative, team-oriented environment focused on excellence

Pay: $100,000.00 - $135,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $100,000 - $135,000