Procurement Specialist
Location: Richland, WA
Company: Columbia Energy & Environmental Services
About Columbia Energy
Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, headquartered in Richland, WA, is a well-established small business with a strong track record of delivering comprehensive solutions in engineering, design, fabrication, instrumentation and controls, and other specialized services. With expertise in fixed-price design/build/test projects, we serve both federal and commercial clients, consistently delivering high-quality results through innovation and technical precision.
Our collaborative and experienced team is committed to providing practical, client-focused solutions tailored to address a wide range of challenges. As part of our ongoing growth, we have recently expanded operations to Idaho Falls, ID, further broadening our capabilities. We take pride in maintaining a strong reputation for quality and integrity while ensuring compliance with rigorous industry standards.
Why Join Columbia Energy?
At Columbia Energy, we foster a supportive and innovative environment where team members can thrive. As a growing small business with ambitious goals, we value initiative, teamwork, and a dedication to quality. This role offers the opportunity to work on impactful projects while advancing your career in a company that values precision, efficiency, and collaboration.
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented Procurement Specialist to support our project operations through effective purchasing, vendor negotiations, and material management. Reporting to the Fabrication Engineering Manager, this role is responsible for the end-to-end procurement lifecycle — from sourcing and vendor selection to purchase order execution and delivery verification — ensuring that all materials, equipment, and services are procured in alignment with project timelines, budgets, and technical specifications.
The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, demonstrates exceptional negotiation skills, and is comfortable working across multiple departments to anticipate needs, resolve challenges, and maintain consistent supply chain flow. This position requires balancing day-to-day purchasing responsibilities with strategic oversight of supplier performance, cost analysis, and market trends.
Key Responsibilities
Procurement & Vendor Management
- Procure equipment, engineered systems, and construction materials in accordance with established procurement plans.
- Negotiate vendor terms, pricing, and delivery schedules to secure cost-effective and timely solutions.
- Source, evaluate, and recommend new suppliers based on quality, reliability, and cost factors.
- Prepare and issue purchase requisitions (PRs) and specifications for fabrication and material requests.
- Develop bid evaluations and spreadsheets, making purchase recommendations supported by cost-benefit analysis.
- Monitor supplier performance, address nonconformance issues, and identify opportunities for improved service and pricing.
- Stay informed of market trends, availability, and lead times for critical materials.
Operational Coordination & Tracking
- Ensure materials are available to meet contract schedules and avoid project delays.
- Manage procurement reporting systems to validate and track project requirements from purchase through delivery.
- Coordinate closely with Receiving to verify deliveries, resolve discrepancies, and confirm documentation accuracy.
- Maintain organized procurement records in alignment with quality program requirements (NQA-1).
- Support project evaluations, recommend process improvements, and implement approved changes.
Compliance & Documentation
- Review requisitions for accuracy, proper account coding, and budget alignment.
- Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, and company policies, including material standards such as ASTM.
- Support and document procurement activities in accordance with regulatory and quality assurance requirements.
Essential Skills & Abilities
- Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
- Exceptional attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze cost, lead time, and supplier performance to inform purchasing decisions.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and electronic procurement software.
- Ability to develop and maintain structured systems for procurement tracking, reporting, and documentation.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills for internal collaboration and external vendor relations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with electronic procurement software.
- Experience working under an NQA-1 quality program.
- Knowledge of ASTM material standards, alloys, and raw material forms.
- Strong working knowledge of supply chain processes in fabrication, manufacturing, or construction environments.
Key Success Attributes
- Organized, resourceful, and results-driven.
- Self-motivated with a positive, solutions-focused mindset.
- Able to work independently while maintaining strong cross-departmental collaboration.
- Comfortable adapting to evolving priorities and project requirements.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit for extended periods.
- Lift and carry up to 15 lbs as needed.
- Wear PPE (hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, etc.) when required.
Working Conditions
This role is primarily based in an office setting, with occasional visits to shops, project sites, vendor facilities, and industrial locations. The environment is fast-paced, deadline-focused, and safety-oriented.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Columbia Energy is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal and state law.
