Purchasing Specialist

Position Summary

The Strategic Sourcing Specialist supports the Strategic Sourcing Department by assisting with supplier selection, contract negotiation, and procurement for assigned commodities. This position is responsible for ensuring the cost-effective and timely acquisition of materials and services while maintaining strong supplier relationships and compliance with company policies.

In addition to managing a defined group of suppliers, the Strategic Sourcing Specialist provides administrative and analytical support to Commodity Managers, the Supplier Sourcing Engineer, and the Strategic Sourcing Manager. The role contributes to the department’s overall efficiency and effectiveness through data management, communication, and coordination with both internal and external stakeholders.

Essential Functions and Basic Duties

1. Commodity and Supplier Management

• Manage a limited number of commodities and suppliers to ensure cost, quality, and delivery requirements are consistently met.
• Conduct supplier research and qualification based on pricing, lead time, service, and financial stability.
• Monitor supplier performance using metrics such as purchase price variance, supplier scorecards, and delivery performance.
• Identify and support cost reduction and process improvement initiatives within assigned commodities.
• Coordinate and assist with make-versus-buy analyses and supplier consolidation efforts.
• Procure and track company tooling, gauges, and instruments through the pattern and tooling program.
• Issue purchase orders, blanket orders, and capital orders for assigned suppliers.

2. Procurement and Administrative Support

• Maintain supplier data, certifications, and documentation in the company ERP system and department records.
• Coordinate supplier information updates, including safety agreements, declarations, surcharge amounts, and tooling details.
• Assist with the setup of new suppliers as directed by Commodity Managers or the Strategic Sourcing Manager.
• Communicate with suppliers regarding late orders, order revisions, or credit requests, ensuring accurate updates to internal stakeholders.
• Support the supplier scorecard process, including issuing and maintaining records for key suppliers.
• Manage departmental office supply inventory and general administrative functions.
• Prepare and file product certifications, requisitions, debit memos, and related purchasing documentation.

3. Supplier Relationship and Communication

• Build and maintain effective working relationships with suppliers to promote reliable, long-term partnerships.
• Coordinate supplier communications, including mass updates, drawing revisions, and policy changes.
• Notify suppliers of rejected castings and arrange RMAs and credits as required.
• Visit supplier facilities periodically to assess capabilities, quality standards, and capacity.
• Represent Gorman-Rupp professionally in all supplier interactions to maintain the company’s reputation for integrity and excellence.

4. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, and Accounting to support purchasing, scheduling, and material needs.
• Communicate supplier issues or material delays to internal departments and management in a timely manner.
• Manage and coordinate the company’s P-Card program, ensuring compliance with company policies.
• Support the annual Conflict Minerals reporting process.
• Provide occasional coverage for the company switchboard as needed.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the department.

5. Other Duties

• Maintain an organized and secure work area, ensuring departmental documentation is current and accessible.
• Assist in developing departmental policies, goals, and budgets.
• Support special projects and process improvement efforts as assigned.
• Perform other duties as directed by the Strategic Sourcing Manager.

Education/Certification

• Associate’s degree in Business, Engineering, or a related field preferred.
• CPM, CSCP, or similar supply chain certification preferred.

Experience Required

• Minimum of three years of purchasing experience, including at least one year in a buying or procurement role. Experience with ERP systems (SyteLine preferred) is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong understanding of purchasing policies, sourcing processes, and supplier management principles.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and ERP systems.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities.
• Strong oral and written communication skills with internal and external partners.
• Analytical thinker with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Self-motivated and proactive in identifying and resolving issues.
• Commitment to continuous improvement, professionalism, and teamwork.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Strength & Stamina: Primarily sedentary office position requiring minimal physical exertion. Occasional lifting or moving of materials, files, or office equipment up to 10 pounds.

Mobility & Dexterity: Regular sitting, standing, and walking within an office environment. May require occasional travel to supplier sites or manufacturing areas. Must be proficient in computer use and standard office equipment operation.

Endurance: Ability to maintain focus, accuracy, and attention to detail during data entry, analysis, and supplier communications. Extended computer and administrative work are typical.

Vision & Hearing: Close visual acuity required for reviewing reports, documentation, and computer screens. Normal hearing necessary for effective communication with suppliers and coworkers.

Environmental Conditions: Work is performed primarily in a climate-controlled office setting. Occasional visits to supplier or plant locations may involve exposure to noise, dust, or temperature variations. PPE must be used as required.

Work Schedule: Standard business hours with flexibility to meet departmental goals, supplier communication needs, or project deadlines. Occasional overtime may be required.

Benefits:

• 401(k) 6% Match
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $49,045 - $66,919