The Senior Purchasing Agent is responsible for leading strategic procurement activities within a manufacturing environment to ensure the timely and cost-effective acquisition of materials, components, equipment, and services. This role drives supplier performance, supports production continuity, and ensures alignment with company goals for quality, delivery, and cost.
Major Responsibilities
- Develop, lead, and execute purchasing strategies that support manufacturing operations, while building and maintaining a strong supplier network focused on quality, delivery, and cost control.
- Analyze market conditions, pricing trends, and supply risks to ensure material availability and support strategic procurement decisions.
- Forecast pricing and market trends to proactively address changes in supply and demand that may impact production.
- Assist in the preparation, verification, and placement of purchase orders based on production schedules and business requirements.
- Monitor critical inventory levels and material availability to ensure uninterrupted manufacturing operations.
- Identify, evaluate, and establish new suppliers while continuously monitoring vendor performance and driving improvement initiatives for underperforming suppliers.
- Develop and track procurement KPIs (e.g., supplier quality, on-time delivery, cost savings) and implement action plans to improve results.
- Lead negotiations with suppliers for pricing, contracts, quality standards, and delivery terms to achieve cost reductions and operational efficiency.
- Compare and negotiate pricing across goods and services to drive cost savings and value improvements.
- Purchase a wide range of manufacturing-related goods and services, including raw materials, component parts, capital equipment, maintenance services, and facility-related needs.
- Validate and approve vendors, ensuring compliance with company standards and confirming goods are shipped and received as intended.
- Oversee post-award contract activities, including monitoring purchase order compliance, resolving supply issues, and negotiating delivery adjustments when necessary.
- Resolve issues related to inventory discrepancies, returns, replacements, and supplier credit arrangements.
- Initiate and support cost reduction and efficiency improvement efforts, including product or process modifications in collaboration with engineering and operations teams.
- Coordinate RFQs, solicit bids, process letters of intent, and ensure adherence to purchasing procedures.
- Maintain accurate procurement documentation, including contracts, agreements, shipping records, and regulatory documentation.
- Support international sourcing initiatives and supplier development efforts.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with production, engineering, quality, accounting, and other departments to align procurement activities with manufacturing needs.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Skills Required:
- Strong organizational and analytical skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, material flow, and supply chain operations.
- Proven ability to research, evaluate, and qualify vendors efficiently.
- Effective communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments and build strong supplier relationships.
- Ability to manage tight deadlines, resolve complex issues, and drive results under pressure.
Education & Experience:
- Two plus years of progressive purchasing or procurement experience, preferably within a manufacturing setting.
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field required; equivalent work experience in a manufacturing environment may be considered.
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems and purchasing software preferred.
- Strong background in supplier negotiations, contract management, and cost reduction initiatives.
- Experience working with domestic and international suppliers is preferred.
Why THK?
At THK, we don’t just offer jobs, we build careers. As part of our team, you’ll enjoy:
- Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Personal time
- 401k Company Match
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Paid Maternity & Paternity Leave
- Company-Paid Uniforms
- A culture of support, respect, and opportunity
Our Core Values – The TMA Way:
- Respect
- Integrity
- Innovation
- Customer Focus
- Positive Attitude
If you're looking for a company that values hard work and dedication and provides a path to a bright future—we want to hear from you!
