Purchasing Agent

About the job

The most distinctive aspect of working at United Mechanical is our vibrant culture and spirit of innovation. You will work side by side with company leaders and industry pioneers who have extensive knowledge and experience. We are a diverse, ambitious team excited about what we do. We have developed a work environment that allows every employee to have job satisfaction while providing the best quality products and services available on a profitable basis. We are committed to hiring and developing the best in our industry. We offer competitive compensation and lots of opportunities for career growth!

Health Benefits

Our benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, disability insurance, company-paid life insurance, and much more!

Paid Time Off

Employees are eligible for Paid Time Off as well as paid holidays.

401(k)

Our competitive retirement plan includes a generous 100% company match up to 4% of contribution.

Together, we have a dynamic, fun, inspiring work environment where we can be ourselves and grow each day. We work hard and play hard. Our culture encourages, supports, and celebrates our diversity. Come join us!

Overview

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for sourcing, pricing, and procuring pipe, valve, and fitting materials to support United Mechanical’s construction projects across Northern California. This role requires strong product knowledge, established vendor relationships, and the ability to balance cost, quality, and delivery schedules. The Purchasing Agent works closely with project managers, field operations, and the warehouse team to ensure materials are available on time and within budget.

Location: San Jose, CA

Reports To: Director of Facilities & Procurement

Responsibilities

• Source, quote, and purchase all PVF materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, and plastic pipe, valves, and fittings.
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships to ensure competitive pricing, availability, and on-time delivery.
• Review project plans and specifications to determine material requirements.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and freight with vendors and distributors.
• Coordinate with the warehouse, field supervisors, and project managers to ensure materials meet jobsite needs and delivery schedules.
• Issue purchase orders in accordance with company policies and project budgets.
• Monitor and manage order status, backorders, and delivery confirmations.
• Assist with vendor qualification, performance evaluation, and product quality reviews.
• Maintain accurate records of quotes, pricing, and supplier agreements.
• Support inventory management and cost tracking efforts in coordination with Accounting and Facilities.
• Proactively identify cost-saving opportunities through bulk purchasing, standardization, or alternate sourcing.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain within the mechanical construction industry.
• In-depth knowledge of pipe, valve, and fitting (PVF) products, specifications, and manufacturers.
• Experience working with mechanical contractors, fabricators, or distributors preferred.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficient in purchasing systems, Excel, and ERP software (Sage 300 or similar preferred).
• Detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and capable of managing multiple active orders.

United Mechanical is an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity in our employee population. We provide equal opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or special disabled veteran, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.