Purchasing Specialist / Buyer

Purchasing Specialist

Direct Hire | $70K to $80K

Job Summary

The Purchasing Specialist is responsible for supporting procurement and supply chain activities that ensure the timely and cost effective supply of raw materials, chemicals, packaging, and production related materials across multiple manufacturing divisions. This position combines daily purchasing responsibilities with opportunities to participate in broader supply chain and strategic procurement initiatives. Working closely with the Purchasing Lead, the Purchasing Specialist will take ownership of the full purchasing cycle, including material planning, purchase order management, supplier communication, inventory coordination, reporting, and procurement analysis. This role is designed for an early career supply chain professional who is eager to learn, develop strong supplier relationships, and grow into a more strategic procurement role over time.

Responsibilities

• Issue and manage purchase orders for raw materials, chemicals, packaging, maintenance items, and production supplies.
• Coordinate purchasing activities with Production, Planning, Warehouse, Logistics, and Accounting teams to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Monitor inventory levels and material requirements to support production schedules and customer demand.
• Track order confirmations, lead times, backorders, and delivery schedules to maintain continuity of supply.
• Communicate directly with suppliers regarding pricing, order status, delivery schedules, shortages, and discrepancies.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records, pricing information, supplier data, and material master information within the ERP system.
• Assist with forecasting, inventory planning, replenishment activities, and material requirement planning.
• Generate purchasing, inventory, and supplier performance reports and assist with data analysis.
• Support supplier evaluations, sourcing initiatives, and vendor relationship management activities.
• Participate in cost reduction initiatives and identify opportunities for purchasing efficiencies and process improvements.
• Assist with procurement strategy, supply chain optimization, and risk management initiatives.
• Support customs and import documentation and procurement related compliance activities when applicable.
• Maintain Safety Data Sheet documentation and support procurement related regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with the Purchasing Lead on strategic procurement projects and long term supply chain initiatives.
• Provide backup support to other administrative or supply chain functions as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build positive working relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Basic understanding of purchasing, procurement, inventory management, and supply chain principles.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Ability to learn ERP and MRP systems and utilize data to support purchasing decisions.
• Demonstrated initiative, curiosity, and willingness to learn.
• Strong professional judgment and ability to maintain confidentiality regarding supplier and pricing information.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor degree in Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Logistics, Operations Management, Business Administration, or related field required.
• 1 to 3 years of purchasing, procurement, supply chain, inventory planning, or manufacturing related experience preferred.
• Experience purchasing raw materials, chemicals, or industrial products.
• Experience with ERP or MRP systems. SAP experience is a plus.