Purchasing Associate

This position supports the Materials Manager in the day-to-day purchasing and procurement activities required to sustain manufacturing operations. The Purchasing Associate assists with order placement, vendor communication, inventory tracking, and purchasing documentation to help ensure materials are available on time and at the right cost.

• Assists the Materials Manager with placing and tracking purchase orders for materials, components, and supplies.
• Communicates with vendors regarding order status, delivery schedules, pricing, and discrepancies.
• Monitors open purchase orders and follows up to ensure on-time delivery; escalates delays or issues to the Materials Manager.
• Conducts a weekly PO status review, contacting vendors to confirm delivery dates, identify open items, and report findings to the Materials Manager.
• Maintains accurate purchasing records and documentation in the ERP/MRP system.
• Assists with obtaining quotes from approved vendors and compiling pricing information for review.
• Supports invoice reconciliation by matching purchase orders to receipts and resolving discrepancies with vendors or accounting.
• Helps maintain approved vendor lists and assists with data entry related to supplier records.
• Assists with inventory monitoring and alerts the Materials Manager to low stock levels or potential shortages.
• Supports the receiving process by verifying incoming materials against purchase orders and packing slips.
• Assists with cycle counts and physical inventory activities as needed.
• Prepares purchasing reports and maintains departmental files and records.
• Supports cost savings initiatives by researching alternate sources or pricing options under the direction of the Materials Manager.
• Performs other duties as requested or required.

This position does not supervise other employees.

Required:

• Associate’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field; or equivalent work experience.
• 1–3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or a related administrative role.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Outlook.
• Experience with ERP or MRP systems, or demonstrated ability to learn new systems quickly.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for interacting with vendors and internal teams.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple open orders simultaneously.

Preferred:

• Experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Familiarity with purchasing documents such as purchase orders, packing slips, and vendor invoices.
• Knowledge of basic inventory control practices.

Works primarily in an office environment. Occasionally visits the shipping/receiving area or the manufacturing floor.