Purchasing Agent

Purchasing Agent - MPM, Inc.

Location: Wichita, KS (Air Capital)

Reporting To: Purchasing Manager or Director of Operations

Job Type: Full-Time

About MPM, Inc.

MPM, Inc. is a leading aerospace and precision manufacturing company located in the "Air Capital" of Wichita, KS. With over 100,000 square feet of production space, we specialize in machining difficult parts to strict tolerances using 3, 4, and 5-axis machines, electrical discharge machining (EDM), sheet metal fabrication, and assembly for the aerospace and other demanding industries. We are committed to providing a quality product that meets the highest standards through continual process improvement and a dedicated team.

Job Summary

The Purchasing Agent will play a critical role in MPM, Inc.'s supply chain by ensuring the timely and cost-effective procurement of high-quality raw materials, components, tooling, and services necessary for our aerospace and precision machining operations. The successful candidate will leverage strong negotiation skills, industry knowledge, and meticulous documentation practices to maintain an efficient and reliable supply base.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Procurement & Sourcing:
  • Execute the end-to-end purchasing process, from reviewing purchase requisitions to processing and tracking purchase orders (POs) for raw materials (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, Inconel), tooling, MRO supplies, and outsourced services.
  • Research, evaluate, and select new suppliers based on stringent criteria including price, quality, delivery time, reliability, and technical support, especially for specialty aerospace materials.
• Contract Management & Negotiation:
  • Analyze price proposals, financial reports, and market conditions to determine reasonable prices and develop profitable purchasing strategies.
  • Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms with vendors to achieve the best overall value for the company.
  • Monitor and evaluate active contracts to ensure vendor compliance and determine the need for changes or renewals.
• Inventory & Logistics:
  • Monitor and maintain optimal inventory levels to support production schedules while avoiding stockouts and over-purchasing.
  • Schedule and verify purchase deliveries, expediting orders when necessary to maintain production continuity.
  • Resolve issues with defective or unacceptable goods/services in collaboration with the Quality and Production teams.
• Documentation & Compliance:
  • Maintain and update meticulous records of all transactions, purchase orders, receipts, product performance, and contracts.
  • Ensure all purchasing activities comply with company policies, procedures, and any relevant industry regulations (e.g., AS9100/aerospace standards).
• Relationship Management:
  • Build and maintain positive, long-term relationships with key suppliers and internal stakeholders (e.g., Planning, Machining, Assembly).

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Education: High school diploma or GED required. A Bachelors degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience:
  • Proven experience as a Purchasing Agent, Buyer, or in a similar procurement role.
  • Experience in the aerospace, defense, or precision manufacturing industry is highly desirable.
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in inventory management software and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.
  • Strong analytical skills to analyze cost data, market trends, and supplier performance.
  • Skilled with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Core Competencies:
  • Exceptional negotiation and communication (written and verbal) skills.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for maintaining accurate documentation.
  • Ability to work independently, prioritize multiple tasks, and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.