Project Buyer - Houston, TX

About the role

Independently performs a variety of assignments requiring the investigation and evaluation of suppliers and the purchase of high-dollar value, unique, and specialty construction materials and equipment. This role must be capable of independent judgement in evaluating, selecting, and applying standard techniques, procedures, and criteria in carrying out a sequence of related purchasing tasks for a construction project and has a direct impact upon cost containment, efficiency, and the profitability of operations. Assignments have clear and specific objectives requiring the investigation of a limited number of variables.

About S&B

S&B is an exceptional full-service Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) company, proudly maintaining private ownership and operation for over five decades. With extensive experience, we have successfully undertaken diverse projects across various industries, including Oil & Gas, Chemicals, Petrochemicals, Energy Transition, Power, and Pulp & Paper. We are committed to safety, timely project completion, and cost-effective solutions, consistently delivering outstanding results while adhering to the highest industry standards. Our company culture fosters collaboration, innovation, and excellence, and we reward our talented team with competitive compensation, flexible and hybrid work schedules, and a comprehensive benefits program.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Will direct the activities of and/or advise less experienced procurement personnel and administrative personnel on a large project (more than $50MM). On a smaller project will be the sole project buyer directing administrative personnel, and will be solely responsible for evaluation and selecting of bidders.

Requirements

• Normally requires a 4-year degree in Business Administration (or related curriculum). In lieu of a degree, 5 years of equivalent experience in construction-related procurement activities is acceptable.
• Minimum of five (5) years of related procurement experience.
• Proficiency in typing and standard Microsoft Office products.

Responsibilities

• Consult with engineering and construction management to clarify material requirements.
• Prepare and submit requests for quotations.
• Discuss needs with vendors, review vendor's alternate suggestions, and make recommendations to project management regarding cost reductions, better deliveries, and sales terms.
• Consult with vendors and project engineers regarding the technical suitability of equipment.
• Analyze quotations and select suppliers.
• Make purchases and negotiate prices and delivery terms.
• Secure quotations and develop cost information for proposals.
• Create bid tabulation forms and other procurement documents.
• Obtain routine cost information for estimating purposes.
• Enter and distribute purchase orders and other procurement documents.
• Solicit information from suppliers regarding their capabilities and qualifications and update the supplier database.

Skills

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical bulletins, and government regulations.
• Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to effectively deliver oral presentations and respond to questions from groups of managers, engineers, clients, and suppliers.
• Strong interpersonal communication and relationship development skills.
• Ability to calculate figures such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume, and apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

Physical Demands

• Occasionally participate in field trips to job sites, requiring the ability to stand, walk, reach, climb, and balance.
• Lifting up to 25 pounds may be required.

Work Environment

Normally works in an office environment but may occasionally participate in field trips to job sites, which may require exposure to outdoor weather conditions, loud noise, fumes, and airborne particles.