Purchasing Agent

Position Summary:

The Purchasing Agent sources and purchases raw material parts machinery equipment tools services packaging materials and/or supplies necessary for operation of an organization. Compiles information to keep informed on price trends and manufacturing processes. Confers with suppliers and analyzes suppliers operations to determine factors that affect prices and determines lowest cost consistent with quality reliability and ability to meet required schedules. Reviews proposals negotiates prices selects or recommends suppliers analyzes trends follows up on orders placed verifies delivery approves payment and maintains necessary records. May prepare bid packages. May be asked to lead and provide secondary analysis to lower level Purchasing agents.

Reporting Relationships:

The Purchasing Agent reports directly to the Supply Chain Manager.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Review coordinate and prioritize procurement activities for company and program PO/requisitions for parts raw materials equipment tools parts supplies and other goods
• Troubleshoot non-conforming suppliers on product service price schedule and/or quality issues
• Coordinate new supplier qualification to customer drawing and specification requirements
• Coordinate and provide make/buy data and determine procurement approach such as direct purchase or bid
• Prepare review and approve purchase orders; provide supplier status on POs as required
• Maintain orderly reports including electronic filing systems
• Review troubleshoot and design/modify manual and computerized procurement systems for items or services purchased costs delivery product quality or performance; maintain inventory reports including design and reporting of internal performance metrics to management as required
• Approve invoices for payment; may expedite delivery of goods to customers
• May occasionally perform special projects
• Other duties as assigned

Required Skills/Experience:

• 2 years of experience in procurement or related support position or equivalent combination of education and work experience preferred
• Experience in manufacturing environment
• Excellent knowledge of procurement process and customer/supplier interfacing principles
• Knowledge of MRP systems administration Microsoft Office Suite Syteline/INFOR is a plus
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills and the ability to communicate proactive solutions across functional areas and various levels of management
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Strong customer service skills
• Proactive communicator who can clearly articulate results and needs across all levels
• Able to establish and communicate clear priorities and to influence others to support and act on those priorities
• Attention to detail and organized
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines

Level of Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• AA and/or PA of America Certificate preferred