Procurement Agent

Description Purchase materials or other goods and/or coordinates activities involved with procuring products and services, such as raw materials, equipment, tools, parts, and supplies for operation and production of customer orders in a multi-plant environment. Work with supply base to utilize alternative, low-cost options where possible. Provide plant-specific support as required. Read and interpret drawings, Bills of Material, designs and purchase orders to determine materials and supplies needed to manufacture products.Select products and supplies for purchase by testing, observing, or examining items.Communicate with suppliers to obtain product information, such as optimal price, availability, and best delivery schedule.Communicate/document with design team /project managers /production team where alternative design opportunities exist.Participate in market basket pricing RFQ’s regarding specific commodities.Expedite orders and requests as needed.Participate in supplier selection process (locate prospective suppliers, perform supplier assessments, recommend next steps to Management team)Determine method of procurement, such as direct purchase or quote.Prepare purchase orders or quote requests.Maintain finished goods inventories at required levels, while actively leading the efforts to reduce the “Total Cost of Ownership” of materials.Review bid proposals and negotiate contracts within budgetary limitations and scope of authority.Review requirements with BOM personnel to insure accuracy of requirements.Maintain procurement records, such as items or services purchased, costs, delivery, product quality or performance, and inventories.Keep abreast of market trends, changes in business practices in the assigned markets, new or altered types of materials entering the market, etc.Perform additional duties as requested. Requirements Bachelor’s Degree in Business preferred, or at least 5 years of purchasing experience in industrial manufacturing. Previous purchasing experience with Electrical or Steel Commodities in a multi-plant environmentGood knowledge in (MRP) material requirement planning (Epicor preferred)Strong analytical and problem solving skills.Strong negotiation skills.Clear and professional communication skills.International sourcing experience required (IEC and Australian code knowledge a plusMay experience extended periods of: Standing Walking Climbing Reaching Pushing Pulling Ability to lift __25__lbs on a regular basis Ability to lift _50__lbs. occasionally Work in extreme heat and cold temperatures. Reaching and working overhead required.