Purchasing/Material Specialist

About the role

The Purchasing / Material Specialist supports telecom network construction, maintenance, and customer delivery programs by managing procurement, inventory, and material fulfillment activities.

Responsibilities

• Create, manage, and expedite purchase orders for network equipment, construction materials, and operational supplies.
• Ensure timely procurement of fiber optic materials, cable, electronics, network hardware, power equipment, and construction-related components.
• Maintain accurate inventory records within ERP and inventory management systems.
• Partner with Engineering, Construction, Network Operations, and Program Management teams to support network build and maintenance projects.
• Support sourcing initiatives by providing spend analysis, supplier performance data, and market intelligence.
• Track critical project materials and proactively communicate potential supply risks.
• Coordinate material transfers between warehouses and field locations as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Logistics, Operations Management, or related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Two to five (2–5) years of experience in purchasing, materials management, inventory control, supply chain, or procurement.
• Experience working with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or similar platforms.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced operational environment.

Qualifications

• Telecommunications, utility, construction, or technology industry experience.
• Experience supporting fiber network deployment, outside plant (OSP), data center, or network infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of telecom materials including fiber cable, conduit, handholes, electronics, power systems, and network equipment.
• APICS/ASCM, ISM, CPM, CPSM, or related supply chain certification.
• Experience with inventory planning and demand forecasting methodologies.

Skills

• Strong analytical skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced telecommunications environment.

Benefits

• Excellent Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Retirement 401(k) Savings Plan
• Generous paid time off policy including paid parental leave