Purchasing Agent

About the role

The Buyer / Purchasing Agent is responsible for selecting and procuring materials, supplies, and equipment that meet cost, quality, and delivery requirements. This role plays a key part in managing supplier relationships, optimizing sourcing strategies, and ensuring a steady flow of materials to support production needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage an annual expenditure base of approximately $9 million for materials and services across E.K. Machine’s purchasing programs.
• Initiate purchase orders and amendments for parts, services, and special tooling.
• Arrange for submission and inspection of sample products as needed.
• Secure and analyze supplier quotations.
• Negotiate pricing and terms with suppliers to ensure cost, quality, and delivery competitiveness.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional departments to support enterprise-wide sourcing initiatives.
• Monitor market prices, trends, engineering developments, and manufacturing improvements.
• Interview and evaluate current and prospective suppliers regarding capabilities, logistics, inventory management, and more.
• Visit supplier facilities to qualify new sources and assist in resolving production, design, or quality issues.
• Execute order release actions and respond to system-generated exception messages.
• Manage inventory levels and item availability to meet production schedules.
• Respond to termination and cancellation requests from planners.
• Release purchase orders for production materials, stock items, and general business needs.
• Serve as a key interface with manufacturing, production control, and departmental leaders regarding material status.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from a four-year college or university; or one to two years of related experience/training; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proficiency using computer applications, including Microsoft Office and manufacturing software.

Why Join EK?

• A collaborative, team-oriented culture
• Opportunities for growth and professional development
• Competitive compensation and benefits package
• A role where your impact is directly tied to organizational success