Purchasing Specialist

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Purchasing Specialist/Buyer to support a growing manufacturing organization in Hopewell Junction, NY. This individual will play a critical role in procuring materials, components, equipment, and services necessary to meet production demands and business objectives. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in purchasing within a manufacturing environment, experience working with ERP/MRP systems, and the ability to build strong supplier relationships while driving cost-effective procurement strategies. This position offers the opportunity to work closely with Engineering, Operations, Production Planning, and Quality teams to ensure material availability, optimize supplier performance, and support ongoing supply chain initiatives.

Responsibilities

Procurement & Purchasing

• Procure raw materials, components, supplies, and services to support production schedules and operational needs.
• Generate and manage purchase orders while ensuring timely and accurate order placement.
• Monitor inventory levels and purchasing requirements to maintain material availability and minimize excess inventory.
• Expedite critical orders and proactively address material shortages.

Supplier Management

• Develop, maintain, and strengthen relationships with suppliers and vendors.
• Source, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers to improve pricing, quality, delivery performance, and supply chain flexibility.
• Conduct supplier performance reviews and implement corrective actions when necessary.
• Collaborate with vendors to resolve delivery issues, quality concerns, and invoice discrepancies.

Negotiation & Cost Control

• Negotiate pricing, delivery schedules, terms, and contractual agreements.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.
• Evaluate supplier quotations and bids to ensure the best overall value for the organization.

Inventory & Supply Chain Support

• Analyze purchasing requirements, inventory levels, and demand forecasts.
• Support inventory optimization efforts while maintaining uninterrupted production.
• Assist in reducing supply chain risks through strategic sourcing initiatives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Engineering and Quality teams regarding product specifications, supplier capabilities, and engineering changes.
• Work closely with Operations and Production Planning to align purchasing activities with manufacturing requirements.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to procurement processes and supply chain performance.

Administrative & System Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate purchasing records, supplier information, and procurement documentation.
• Perform data entry and order entry activities with a high level of accuracy.
• Utilize ERP/MRP systems to manage procurement activities and inventory transactions.
• Assist with invoicing follow-up, pricing updates, and purchasing-related administrative functions.

Requirements

• 5+ years of purchasing, procurement, or supply chain experience within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience purchasing technical, engineered, or custom-manufactured components.
• Proven ability to negotiate pricing, supplier agreements, and delivery terms.
• Experience evaluating supplier performance and managing vendor relationships.
• Hands-on experience with ERP/MRP systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across multiple departments.
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management