Purchasing Agent

Prompt Praxis Laboratories (PPL), founded in 2011, is a women-owned analytical and microbiology laboratory specializing in rapid testing, analytical development, and comprehensive support services. Leveraging modern technology and automation, PPL delivers accurate, high-quality results for pharmaceutical, compounding pharmacy, and medical device clients. Committed to scientific excellence, data integrity, and operational innovation, PPL provides cost-effective solutions that support the safety and effectiveness of drug products.

About the role

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for coordinating and executing PPL's purchasing activities, vendor relationships, and purchasing documentation. This role ensures materials, supplies, and services are purchased accurately, timely, and in accordance with company policies and operational needs. The Purchasing Agent works closely with department leaders and the Controller to support cost management, purchasing efficiency, and effective financial operations.

Location: On Site
Reports to: Controller

Responsibilities

• Creates, processes, and maintains purchase orders and related purchasing documentation.
• Coordinates with department leaders to identify purchasing needs and ensure timely ordering supplies, materials, and services.
• Reviews purchase requests for completeness and appropriate authorization prior to processing.
• Matches purchase orders, receipts, and vendor invoices and assists in resolving discrepancies.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for routine vendor inquiries, order status updates, pricing questions, and purchasing discrepancies.
• Maintains vendor files, pricing records, purchasing histories, and supporting documentation.
• Monitors open purchase orders and follow up on delayed or incomplete orders.
• Supports accounts payable activities by ensuring purchasing and invoice documentation are complete and accurate prior to financial processing.
• Tracks purchasing trends and provides purchasing data to the Comptroller to support budgeting, cost analysis, and forecasting.
• Identifies opportunities for vendor consolidation, cost savings, and purchasing process improvements.
• Supports audit requests related to purchasing and vendor documentation.

Requirements

• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong vendor relationship management, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities.
• Working knowledge of purchasing processes, documentation, and internal controls.
• Ability to analyze pricing and purchasing data and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and Outlook, with demonstrated professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of two years of purchasing, procurement, vendor management, or related operational experience preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience may be considered.

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to move throughout PPL facilities as needed to assess purchasing and operational needs.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.