What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing Agent position at SMITH-MIDLAND CORPORATION?
Join a fast-paced, supportive team where you’re more than just a number, you're family! As a part of our business growth and expansion, Smith-Midland is adding a Purchasing Agent member of the team, to keep our manufacturing operations running smoothly. This is a vital position with a direct impact on our team's success. Purchasing Agent will be responsible for sourcing materials, negotiating with suppliers, maintaining optimal inventory levels, and ensuring cost-effective and timely acquisition of goods and services essential for production, rental operations, and field installation projects.
Key Responsibilities:
- Procurement & Sourcing
- Source and purchase raw materials such as cement, rebar, aggregates, form liners, and related products for precast concrete production.
- Enter all purchasing in Purchase Order system; Provide daily reports of total orders outstanding.
- Procure temporary materials and components for barrier rentals (e.g., connection hardware, signage, lifting devices).
- Source specialty products required for architectural concrete system installations.
- Vendor Management
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and subcontractors.
- Evaluate vendor performance based on quality, pricing, delivery timelines, and compliance.
- Solicit bids and negotiate favorable terms and pricing with suppliers.
- Inventory Control
- Receive ordered material. Ensure quantity and quality are consistent with order.
- Monitor and manage inventory levels to meet production and project schedules while minimizing excess stock.
- Coordinate with production, logistics, and project managers to forecast material needs.
- Logistics & Coordination
- Schedule and track material deliveries to ensure timely arrival at manufacturing plants.
- Collaborate with the rental division to ensure availability of materials and components needed for barrier installations and retrievals.
- Compliance & Documentation
- Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies and industry regulations.
- Maintain accurate records of purchases, pricing, and supplier agreements.
- Assist with budgeting and cost reporting for ongoing projects.
Qualifications:
- Education & Experience:
- Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
- 3 years of purchasing experience in construction, precast, or manufacturing environments required.
- Skills & Competencies:
- Strong negotiation and communication skills.
- Solid understanding of concrete materials, construction components, and manufacturing processes.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and purchasing or ERP software (e.g., Sage, Viewpoint, or similar).
- Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
Work Environment:
- Mix of office and plant/site environments.
- Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. occasionally and navigate active manufacturing zones.