Purchasing Specialist

Purchasing SpecialistLocation: Greensboro, NC Duration: Contract to hire Pay: DOEThe Purchasing Specialist is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, procuring, and managing materials and services required to support aircraft maintenance operations and business activities. This role ensures the timely acquisition of quality products and services while achieving the most favorable cost, delivery, and supplier performance outcomes.Working closely with internal customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams, the Purchasing Specialist supports operational continuity, maintains compliance with company policies and industry requirements, and contributes to the efficient management of company resources. This position may support aircraft maintenance purchasing activities, indirect procurement functions, or both.What you will be responsible for:Source and procure materials, aircraft parts, tooling, equipment, supplies, and services required to support maintenance and operational requirements.Evaluate supplier capabilities and select qualified vendors based on quality, delivery performance, pricing, and service levels.Negotiate pricing, terms and conditions, delivery schedules, and transportation methods in accordance with company policies and business objectives.Generate, process, and manage purchase orders while ensuring all required approvals are obtained.Monitor open purchase orders and proactively communicate with suppliers to ensure on-time delivery.Request and verify required certifications, documentation, and regulatory compliance records at the time of purchase.Maintain strong supplier relationships and continuously evaluate procurement history to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve vendor performance.Coordinate with Operations, Maintenance, Stores, Quality, Receiving, and Finance departments to support material availability and resolve purchasing-related issues.Reconcile receiving, invoicing, and accounting discrepancies in a timely manner.Manage supplier returns, warranty claims, credits, and material discrepancies as needed.Ensure subcontracted maintenance services are procured only from approved and authorized service providers.Administer and monitor Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) transactions and address any exceptions.Maintain supplier master data and purchasing information within company systems.Ensure compliance with hazardous material handling, storage, transportation, and shipping requirements.Track and report procurement activity to support departmental goals and operational objectives.Promote a positive company image through ethical business practices and professional vendor interactions.Ability to work overtime and flexible schedules as business and operational needs require.Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.What you will need to be successful in this role:Associate degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Aviation Management, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.Minimum of two (2) years of purchasing, procurement, supply chain, or sourcing experience.Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.Strong understanding of purchasing and procurement principles.Excellent organizational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.Ability to read, write, speak, and understand the English language.Preferred: Purchasing experience within an aerospace, aviation, airline, maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO), or manufacturing environment.Experience sourcing aircraft materials, components, tooling, or repair services.Familiarity with ERP systems, procurement software, and inventory management systems.Knowledge of aviation regulatory requirements and aircraft material certifications.Experience negotiating supplier contracts and long-term purchasing agreements.The rewards of your career at AAR go far beyond just your salary:Competitive salaryComprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.401(k) retirement plan with company matchGenerous paid time off programProfessional development and career advancement opportunitiesPhysical Demands/Work Environment:Primarily works in an office environment with extended periods of sitting and computer use.Regular use of computers, telephones, and standard office equipment.Ability to perform detailed work requiring sustained concentration and visual attention.Frequent keyboarding, data entry, and review of procurement documentation.Occasional bending, stooping, reaching, stretching, and filing activities.Ability to lift and carry up to 15 pounds occasionally.Normal or corrected vision and hearing are sufficient to perform essential job functions.Occasionally travel within warehouses, stores, production, and aircraft hangar environments.May be exposed to varying noise levels, operational equipment, and changing temperatures while visiting maintenance and storage areas.