Assistant Buyer

About the Role

Under direct supervision, follow established guidelines and assist the Buyers and other Purchasing staff in the procurement of goods and services for internal and external customers.

Responsibilities

• Process purchase requisitions from internal and regional customers for standard non-stock items; ensure all requisitions are processed accurately and timely.
• Assist with monitoring the inventory reorder points as assigned by Buyers; ensure availability of stocked items.
• Expedite orders as required and provide weekly updates regarding order status to buyers; resolve invoice discrepancies with A/P and suppliers.
• Process and distribute Low Stock Notices and inventory management reports.
• Input purchase orders into the computer system and, within established guidelines, issue standard PO’s to suppliers.
• Assist in the research, analysis, and recommendations of new sources of specific goods, services, and process improvements.
• Assist in monitoring supplier performance to ensure purchases are cost-effective and suppliers provide expected service and value.
• Coordinate with Buyers and internal customers to identify needs and prepare specifications to ensure purchases meet customers’ requirements and are cost-effective.
• Prepare and distribute requests for quotes to suppliers.
• Recommend and assist with interviewing prospective suppliers.
• As directed, negotiate pricing and assure quality, timely delivery of standard items.

Requirements

• Minimum of two to four years of general office experience.
• Knowledge of Purchasing procedures and computer-based inventory systems.
• Ability to read and write at a level necessary to complete the above tasks.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Proficient with MS Word and Excel.
• Data Entry experience.
• Ability to type 25 wpm.
• Strong business math skills.

For roles that are remote (i.e., Work From Home (WFM)) or hybrid (i.e., partial onsite at a VSP location and WFM), must demonstrate a high level of engagement in virtual environments, including maintaining camera presence during meetings to support effective communication and team alignment.

Pay

Compensation range for the role is $21.00 - $33.08 per hour. Applicable salary ranges may differ across markets. Actual pay will be determined based on experience and other job-related factors permitted by law. As part of the compensation package, this role may include eligible bonuses and commissions.