Purchasing Agent

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for increasing inventory turns for assigned vendor product lines and reducing freight costs while maintaining high service levels. This role includes the purchasing of a wide variety of items used in front office, production, and industrial environments. The position also manages vendor communications, logistics coordination, order tracking, resolving receiving discrepancies, and processing necessary documentation related to inventory and purchasing activities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Issue and manage purchase orders.
• Review daily Vendor Due for Review report and determine reorder quantities based on vendor terms, historical usage, and sales forecasts.
• Place orders to fulfill all current backorders for class 1-3 items.
• Alert the Purchasing Manager when vendor order minimums or freight thresholds cannot be met.
• Respond to urgent and crisis order requests.
• Review Open Purchase Orders report daily; expedite delayed and backordered items.
• Collaborate with warehouse staff and vendors to resolve discrepancies in shipments.
• Monitor new product and usage reports to identify non-performing inventory and follow up with sales staff.
• Evaluate Overstock and Red Flag reports to identify slow-moving items for potential vendor return.
• Prepare return lists and coordinate with vendors to obtain Return Authorization Numbers; follow up on shipment and credit memos.
• Assist with vendor performance evaluations and new product setup approvals.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred; or equivalent combination of education and purchasing experience.
• 1–2 years of purchasing or related experience.
• Experience with Epicor/Prophet 21 a plus.
• Strong reading and comprehension skills for interpreting safety rules and manuals.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for interaction with internal and external partners.
• Strong mathematical skills for calculating discounts, totals, percentages, and applying basic algebra.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs, data entry, and typing (45+ WPM and 10-Key at 9,000+ KPH).
• Sound reasoning skills and the ability to interpret and apply procedural instructions.
• Consistent attendance and ability to contribute effectively in a team environment.

Hybrid position