Purchasing Agent - Manufacturing

About the Role

The Purchasing Agent - Manufacturing executes day-to-day procurement of raw materials, components, and supplies to keep production running on schedule, while managing inventory levels to avoid both stockouts and excess carrying costs.

What You'll Do

• Production Material Procurement
  • Issue purchase orders for raw materials and components based on production schedules
  • Source and price materials to support manufacturing demand
  • Monitor supplier lead times and adjust order timing to avoid production delays
  • Support new product introduction sourcing as needed
• Inventory Management
  • Maintain min/max inventory levels and reorder points
  • Conduct or support cycle counts and inventory accuracy checks
  • Manage aging and obsolete inventory and coordinate disposition
  • Reconcile inventory records within the system
• Vendor & Cost Management
  • Place and track orders with approved manufacturing suppliers
  • Verify pricing against budgeted or standard cost before issuing POs
  • Flag price discrepancies or supply chain risks to the Purchasing Supervisor
• Production Coordination
  • Partner with Production and Operations on demand forecasts and schedule changes
  • Communicate material availability and delays proactively
  • Support production planning meetings with material status updates
  • Coordinate with the Purchasing team on PO documentation
• Process & Documentation
  • Create standard processes for: PO issuance and approval routing, inventory replenishment and cycle counts, supplier delivery tracking
  • Ensure smooth transition from production plan → material procurement and inventory availability, so production is never delayed by material shortages

Required Experience

• 3+ years purchasing or buying experience in a manufacturing environment
• Experience with inventory management and ERP/MRP systems
• Familiarity with production scheduling and demand forecasting
• Strong vendor relationship and negotiation skills at the transactional level
• Comfortable working closely with production/operations teams
• Comfortable holding peers and direct reports accountable to metrics; can use coaching, feedback and discipline effectively
• Proven ability building performance metrics and supporting a strong culture between field and office

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in supply chain, business, or operations management — preferred, or equivalent working experience

What We Offer

• Team Member Ownership: Work for a company where your contributions directly impact your future
• Commitment to Safety: Safety isn't just a priority; it's our promise to you and your family
• Career Growth: This isn't just a job - it's a career path with opportunities for advancement
• Continuous Learning: Investment in your professional development
• Collaborative Culture: Work with a team that values respect, integrity, and excellence
• Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive pay, ESOP, 401(K) with employer match, and no healthcare premium increases for 4 years