Job Title: Purchasing Agent

Position Overview

The Purchasing Agent works closely with multiple departments including Sales, Manufacturing, Warehousing, and Account Services to ensure material availability, cost efficiency, inventory optimization, and product quality. This role serves as a key cross-functional partner and “quarterback” in coordinating purchasing activities, resolving supply challenges, and supporting customer demand in a fast-paced manufacturing and distribution environment.

The ideal candidate is analytical, detail-oriented, collaborative, and experienced in purchasing within a manufacturing or distribution setting.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing & Procurement

• Utilize ERP/MRP systems to review demand requirements and generate purchase orders
• Procure raw materials and finished goods to support manufacturing operations and customer demand
• Monitor inventory levels and maintain optimal inventory turns
• Analyze pricing, proposals, and supplier data to secure competitive pricing and purchasing costs
• Implement and communicate raw material and product price increases as needed
• Work with management on product costing, pricing, estimations, and production-related purchasing decisions
• Monitor supplier performance, purchase orders, and shipments to ensure timely delivery
• Expedite orders as needed to support production schedules and customer deadlines
• Resolve supplier issues related to delivery, pricing, shortages, or quality concerns
• Forecast demand levels and recommend optimal ordering strategies and inventory levels
• Request and maintain supplier quality documentation including certificates of conformance and test reports
• Research, evaluate, and maintain supplier relationships based on quality, pricing, service, reliability, and capabilities

Cross-Functional Coordination (“Quarterback Role”)

• Coordinate with internal departments including Sales, Account Services, Production, and Warehouse teams to resolve material and supply chain challenges
• Participate in daily “Hot List” meetings to review open orders and critical priorities
• Act as a problem solver and leader for internal and external purchasing-related challenges
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and operational efficiencies across departments
• Maintain a customer-first mindset while balancing operational and inventory objectives

Required Qualifications

• 3–5 years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing or distribution environment preferred
• Experience with ERP/MRP/Inventory Management systems such as Infor CSI (Syteline) or similar platforms
• Strong Microsoft Office and Google Workspace proficiency, especially Excel
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and forecasting abilities
• Ability to multitask and maintain accuracy in a fast-paced environment
• Proven problem-solving and organizational skills
• Strong leadership and cross-functional collaboration abilities

Preferred Knowledge & Skills

• Positive, collaborative, and customer-focused mindset
• Understanding of purchasing concepts, inventory control, and supply chain operations
• Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures including record management and documentation
• Strong customer service orientation with the ability to build internal and external relationships
• Continuous improvement mindset with the ability to identify process efficiencies

Work Environment

• Fast-paced manufacturing and distribution environment
• Frequent interaction with vendors, production teams, warehouse personnel, and customer-facing departments
• Combination of independent work and team collaboration required