Purchasing Assistant

General Overview: The Purchasing Assistant provides administrative and logistical support to the purchasing department handling such tasks as purchase order creation, price updates, vendor communication, and inventory management.

Key Responsibilities:

·  Purchase Order Management: Creating, processing, and tracking purchase orders ensuring accuracy and completeness of information.

·  Vendor Communication: Interacting with our vendors to obtain quotes, negotiate prices, and resolve issues related to orders, delivery, and invoices.

·  Inventory Management: Monitoring stock levels, identifying purchasing needs, and assisting with inventory control procedures.

·   Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records of purchase orders, invoices, contracts, rebate programs, and vendor information.

·  Data Entry, Reporting, & Cost Analysis: Entering data into purchasing systems, updating pricing, generating reports, analyzing purchasing data, assisting with cost analysis and

identifying opportunities for cost savings.

·  Communication & Coordination: Communicating with branch managers and other internal departments, such as warehouse, accounting, and sales to ensure smooth purchasing processes.

·  Following Up: Following up with suppliers on order confirmations, delivery schedules, and invoice discrepancies.

·  Market Research: Staying informed about market trends and pricing to support informed purchasing decisions.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

·  Associate Degree or Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration or related field is preferred.

·   Prior experience in purchasing, procurement, or logistics is preferred.

·  Strong organizational and time management skills.

·   Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry.

·   Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

·   Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.

·   Knowledge of purchasing software and systems.

·   Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

·   Problem solving and analytical skills.

·   Knowledge of procurement best practices.

Additional Expectations: Purchasing Assistants are expected to be part of the team effort within the entire corporation. Help other where help is needed. Maintain open line of communication with all other employees. Treat all others as being equally important to the success of the company and be mindful of their procedures and workloads during all your activities. Help maintain an organized and clean work environment. Follow completely all defined procedures and required paperwork. Purchasing Assistants are expected to approach all situations with honesty and integrity and accomplish any other tasks as may be assigned.