Buyer

Department: Purchasing | Reports To: Procurement Manager | FLSA Classification: Non-exempt | Job Type: Full-Time | Location: Houston, TX

About the role

The Buyer sources materials, equipment, and supplies needed to support manufacturing operations. This role works with vendors and internal departments to obtain competitive pricing, maintain reliable supply, and ensure purchases meet specifications and delivery requirements.

Founded in 1978, Piping Technology & Products, Inc. (PT&P) manufactures engineered pipe supports and related products for power, refining, chemical, and other industrial facilities around the world. Our Houston team values responsive service, dependable quality, and practical problem solving.

Responsibilities

• Source and purchase metals, raw materials, maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) items, shop supplies, tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other assigned goods.
• Solicit and evaluate quotes, negotiate pricing and terms, issue purchase orders, and follow up with suppliers through delivery.
• Build productive vendor relationships and identify, evaluate, and onboard new suppliers.
• Monitor material availability and inventory needs, communicate potential shortages early, and help keep production supplied.
• Track shipments from vendors through freight forwarders to their final destination and resolve delivery issues.
• Work with department managers to confirm specifications, quality requirements, quantities, and deadlines.
• Resolve supplier discrepancies, returns, credits, and other purchasing issues.
• Maintain accurate purchase orders, supplier information, and audit-ready purchasing records.
• Coordinate occasional administrative purchases or services, including catering, as needed.

Qualifications and Skills

• Purchasing experience with metals, raw materials, MRO items, and shop supplies in a manufacturing or industrial setting.
• Ability to read technical drawings and understand shop material and equipment needs; knowledge of pipe, valves, and fittings (PVF) is a plus.
• Strong negotiation and supplier relationship skills, with sound judgment about cost, quality, and delivery.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills for formulas, tracking, analysis, and accurate purchasing records.
• Excellent organization and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Clear, professional communication with vendors, managers, and teammates; personable and confident when building rapport.
• Dependable attendance, punctuality, initiative, and ownership of assigned work.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Paid time off
• 401(k) plan

Schedule

Some Saturday overtime from 8 AM.