A fabrication and installation company is currently seeking a Purchasing Agent (also known as a Procurement Agent or Buyer) for sourcing and acquiring raw materials—such as structural steel, plate, tubing, hardware, tools, etc.—along with necessary services and equipment to support manufacturing and fabrication operations and our installation services. They will be expected to manage vendor relationships, monitor market trends for pricing, and coordinate logistics to meet strict production deadlines.
Key Responsibilities
· Material Sourcing & Selection: Identify and evaluate suppliers for raw steel (mills, distributors) and custom-fabricated components based on quality, lead times, and fabrication capabilities.
· Contract Negotiation: Negotiate pricing, delivery schedules, and payment terms to minimize "total landed cost" while ensuring a steady supply of materials.
· Order Management: Issue and manage purchase orders (POs), verifying that specifications, grades, and quantities match engineering blueprints or bills of materials (BOMs).
· Inventory & Logistics: Monitor inventory levels to prevent shortages or overstock. Coordinate with shipping agencies to track inbound orders and ensure timely arrival for production deadlines.
· Quality Assurance: Resolve material discrepancies, such as incorrect dimensions or missing Material Test Reports (MTRs), and coordinate with the quality control team on rejected materials.
· Market Analysis: Stay updated on steel market trends and price fluctuations to recommend cost-saving procurement strategies.
Required Skills & Qualifications
· Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with steel grades (e.g., A36, A572), fabrication processes (welding, metal fabrication.) The ability to read engineering drawings is not required but is a plus.
· Systems Proficiency: Experience with Microsoft Programs, specifically Excel.
· Analytical Abilities: Strong math skills for calculating material "nesting," weights, and cost-per-unit analysis. Strong organizational skills for tracking orders and follow ups on orders.
· Experience: Typically requires 2–3+ years of procurement experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
· Education: An associates degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is preferred, though relevant industry experience is often accepted.
· Soft Skills: Self motivator, strong negotiation, analytical and communication skills.
Pay: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person