What are the responsibilities and job description for the MRO Purchasing Specialist position at Steel Warehouse Alabama?
Position Summary
The MRO Purchasing / Inventory Specialist is responsible for managing procurement, inventory control, and organization of maintenance spare parts and operational supplies. This role supports plant reliability by ensuring critical parts / supplies are available, accurately tracked, and efficiently replenished while maintaining compliance with safety and maintenance best practices.
Key Responsibilities
· Source and purchase MRO parts, supplies, and consumables.
· Create and manage purchase orders using ERP/CMMS systems.
· Maintain vendor communication for pricing, availability, and delivery timelines.
· Maintain accurate and up-to-date purchasing records including pricing, descriptions, account numbers, quotes, acknowledgments, and packing slips.
· Maintain accurate inventory levels, tracking incoming and outgoing inventory to prevent inventory discrepancies.
· Conduct regular physical counts of inventory to verify accuracy against recorded data.
· Ensure proper labeling, storage, and tracking of all parts / supplies.
· Establish and manage min/max inventory levels.
· Set up new parts in CMMS systems with complete information / documentation.
· Inspect incoming and outgoing inventory for quality and condition. Report any damaged or defective items to management.
· Maintain a clean and organized inventory storage area (5s). Implement effective storage solutions to optimize space and facilitate easy access to items, ensuring that items are stored in a manner that prevents damage.
· Assist receiving deliveries from vendors / Coordinate shipping with carriers for outgoing items.
· Support Preventive Maintenance (PM) updates and equipment records.
· Maintain & update MSDS (Safety Data Sheets) binders as required.
· Assist in maintaining and updating Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures and documentation.
· Track supplier performance and identify cost savings opportunities.
· Collaborate with maintenance, operations, and engineering teams as needed.
· Escalate complex issues to management when needed.
· Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications
· High school diploma or GED.
· 2 years’ experience in purchasing or inventory in manufacturing.
· Experience with ERP/CMMS systems (Plex, SAP, Limble, Maximo, etc.).
· Strong organizational skills.
· Data entry efficiency / accuracy (ERP, CMMS, Microsoft Word & Excel).
· Ability to manage multiple priorities.
· Operate equipment safely: banders, pallet jacks, hand trucks
· Work overtime as needed.
· Can work from elevated heights (ladders / step stools)
Preferred Qualifications
· Experience in maintenance or MRO environments.
· Knowledge of industrial spare parts.
· Strong vendor management skills.
· Familiarity with 5S and Lean principles.
· Understanding of OSHA, SDS, and LOTO standards.
· Forklift / crane certification or ability to obtain.
· Familiarity of FIFO (first in/ first out) practices
Key Competencies
· Attention to detail / accuracy with documentation and cycle counting
· Inventory discipline
· Time management
· Accountability
· Communication skills
· Problem-solving abilities
· Continuous improvement mindset
Physical Requirements
· Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
· Frequent walking, standing, and bending.
· Ability to work in industrial environment.
Reporting Structure
Reports to Maintenance Manager.
Pay: $22.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $22 - $24