What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing / Inventory Coordinator position at ufpi?
UFP Site Built is the leader in designing and manufacturing value-added wood and non-wood products for the construction industry. We offer a wide variety of wood structural components, aluminum decks and rails, and cold formed steel structural components. We're looking for a Purchasing / Inventory Coordinator to join the team in Lafayette, CO. The Purchasing / Inventory Coordinator is responsible for supporting purchasing operations, inbound/outbound freight tracking, and inventory management to ensure the plant maintains optimal inventory levels and efficient material flow. This role works closely with the GMO, Plant Manager, suppliers, and internal departments to align purchasing, inventory, and operational goals while supporting cost control, reporting, and process improvements. Principal Duties and Responsibilities Purchasing & Freight Coordination Assist buyers in tracking and tracing purchase orders and shipments Maintain frequent communication with suppliers and providers to ensure timely and accurate information Track inbound freight (truck & rail) and maintain all related documentation and spreadsheets Assist in cost/rate retrieval for domestic and international freight lanes Initiate and process purchase orders and ensure timely follow-up on deliveries Assist in resolving receiving claims and discrepancies Prepare reports, correspondence, and market data to support purchasing decisions Provide administrative support for purchasing activities and special projects Inventory & Yard Supervision Assist the GMO in managing plant inventory levels to meet turn guidelines and inventory-to-sales targets Monitor inventory levels and material conditions to prevent shortages or overstock Manage aged inventory and generate reports to highlight slow-moving or excess materials Work with Production and Sales teams to address inventory issues and align supply with demand Monitor offsite inventory locations and perform quarterly reconciliations Coordinate stock transfers and collaborate with sister plants to balance inventory levels Support purchasing strategies by understanding market trends, pricing, and substitution options Assist with margin optimization through material selection and purchasing decisions Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Sales to communicate inventory levels, potential shortages, and market changes Work with plant leadership to determine inventory needs and purchasing strategies Ensure alignment between purchasing, production, and sales objectives Reporting & Continuous Improvement Prepare and maintain reports on inventory, purchasing, and market trends Assist in developing insights to support operational and financial decision-making Identify opportunities to improve processes and increase efficiency Additional Responsibilities Perform other duties as assigned Qualifications Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field (or equivalent experience) Minimum 2 years of purchasing, inventory management, or manufacturing experience Experience purchasing construction materials or lumber (preferred) Customer service experience (minimum 2 years preferred) Working knowledge of Microsoft Office; advanced Excel skills preferred Understanding of inventory management principles and supply chain processes Knowledge of panel/lumber grades, lumber math, and cuts/yields (preferred) Skills and Abilities Strong organizational skills and attention to detail Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines Effective communication and interpersonal skills across all levels Ability to analyze data and apply business math to operations Proficient in computer systems and business software Demonstrated ability to improve processes and workflows Ability to work independently with minimal supervision Conduct & Work Style Self-motivated and highly organized Team-oriented with a collaborative mindset Professional demeanor and strong work ethic Adaptable and proactive in problem-solving Hourly Pay Range: $25-30/hr dependent on experience* *pay range may be adjusted depending on cost of living Bonus/Incentive Pay Incentive pay may be available for certain job roles and may include piece rate incentives, weekly production bonuses, trip rates, and employee referral bonuses. A discretionary annual bonus based on Company and business unit performance may also be provided. Benefits currently offered to our employees: Medical insurance Health savings account with company contribution Dental insurance Vision insurance Basic and voluntary life insurance Disability insurance 401(k) plan with company match Paid vacation and holidays Stock purchase program with employee discount Educational reimbursement Wellness programs and challenges Other supplemental benefits The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Please watch our welcome video below to learn more about UFP Industries! Click Here to Review Truck Driver Postings Wondering what the companies of UFP Industries are all about? We're successful. We've been around for more than 65 years, and we've been profitable every year since our founding. We work hard, and we know how to set and beat records. We're competitive. Our line of work is demanding, but you'll get back what you put in and have fun doing it. We're family. We care for each other and want to see each other succeed. We enjoy watching each other build great careers and take advantage of the many opportunities we have to advance. And that makes UFP Industries a great place to be. We work hard and smart. We learn and grow from each other, from experience, from trial and error, from success. We collaborate to maintain our competitive edge. And we do it all on a global scale.