Job Description

A manufacturing company in Calera, Alabama, is seeking an experienced Purchasing Agent to identify, qualify, and contact potential vendors to receive bids or quotations. The agent will participate in bid evaluation and vendor selection and may suggest alternate vendors in an attempt to secure discounts for bulk purchases. The agent will assist vendors with the set-up and use of organizational purchasing/procurement systems. The agent will execute purchases and issue purchase orders as directed by the PMO or other personnel. The agent will maintain records of purchases or payments.

Scope of Responsibilities

• 1st Responsibility - Ensuring personal safety and the safety of your team members.
• Assists supervisors and managers in maintaining a safe and healthy work environment.
• Wears appropriate PPE, including fall protection, respiratory protection, hearing protection, foot, hand, head, and eye protection.
• Responsible for cleanliness of the assigned work area and maintaining a safe and clean work environment.
• Monitors the performance of suppliers, assessing their ability to meet quality and delivery requirements.
• Examine and evaluate marketplace business conditions, vendor opportunities and new product introductions.
• Engage in sourcing to find alternative or new vendors to improve quality, cost and/or lead time.
• Regularly poll the sales force and vendor representatives for opportunities and concerns
• Other duties as assigned.

Work Environment:

• The physical environment requires the employee to work primarily in an office environment, with prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Occasionally works in warehouse/plant in heat/cold conditions.
• Frequently required to use personal protective equipment to prevent exposure to hazards.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times.

Qualifications

Required:

· Bachelor’s degree or 4+ years of experience in purchasing or equivalent combination of education and experience.

· Assertive, self-motivated, goal and result-driven.

· Proficiency in Excel and Outlook.

· Proven analytical skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

Ability to manage multiple competing priorities.

Strong database and computer skills.

Proven track record of taking ownership and driving results.

Experience in process improvement.

Experience working with MRP systems, preferably D365.

Required Competencies:

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.

Ability to work as a team player and communicate effectively outside your department.

Proven negotiation skills with ability to create and maintain positive working relationships with vendors, suppliers, shippers, team members, and customers.

Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.