Sr. Purchasing Specialist

General Purpose Perform all phases of order/purchasing activities with a limited degree of supervision. Acquire materials, supplies, and services and place purchase orders for goods that have standard costs and quoted discounts already in place. Check and process purchase orders/requisitions; review information to ensure it is complete, accurate, and that order parameters are clear and understood. Monitor systems to determine purchasing requirements. Review opportunities for new supply sources and suitability of materials offered. Demonstrate full proficiency with purchasing activities, ensure good purchasing practices, and function as a resource for team members with less experience. Job Duties and Responsibilities Prepare and review requests and assist with payables, purchase orders, and invoices. Contact management or department representatives to clarify or obtain additional information. Maintain inventory items at predetermined levels to serve operations and administration. Maintain organizational flow of stockroom, parts, and supplies to aid in locating supplies and eliminate ordering unnecessary supplies. Coordinate and perform cycle counts on inventory. Monitor and report results for monthly tracking. Determine whether products have been received, receive and review accompanying documents, and forward to appropriate accounting group for payment processing. Establish, develop, and maintain positive vendor relationships and educate vendors regarding company purchasing policies and procedures. Research products and services, obtain accurate and complete price and delivery information, and determine best source for various purchases based on price and availability. May negotiate pricing (to be reviewed by supervisor); look for ways to minimize costs (e.g., consolidate purchase orders to minimize freight costs) and present to supervisor. Research equipment and supplies for non-stock item purchases. Purchase non-inventoried items/supplies and maintain monthly records for corporate. Track status of orders and report delivery issues to affected management. Respond to requests for emergency orders, and contact vendors to expedite orders when necessary. Identify problems and issues, such as poor product quality and quantity shortages, communicate with vendors, and follow through to ensure problems are addressed. Respond to, investigate, and resolve purchasing-related inquiries, concerns, complaints, and problems. Create, compile, and maintain necessary documents for internal and external individuals (e.g., management, accounting, auditors). Communicate purchase order procedures, changes, and directives to staff in order to ensure the smooth and accurate flow of information. The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as require. Education and Experience High school diploma or equivalent. 2 to 4 years of purchasing or related experience. Certification and/or License - may be required during course of employment. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems. Skill in proficient computer usage. Strong organization and planning skills. Good negotiation skills. Able to provide solutions to problems in situations that are atypical or infrequently occurring based on practice and existing precedents or procedures. Able to use discretion to modify work practices and processes to achieve results or improve efficiency. Able to make decisions in a timely manner, sometimes with incomplete information or under tight deadlines. Able to work with accuracy and attention to detail. Able to work independently under limited supervision. Able to adapt and manage change effectively. Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing. Able to work in collaboration effectively and foster good teamwork. Must be able to read, write and speak English. An Equal Opportunity Employer #J-18808-Ljbffr Dairy Farmers of America