Purchasing Assistant

Purchasing AssistantThe Purchasing Assistant supports the procurement function by placing and expediting purchase orders for materials, services, and commodities within assigned limits. This role coordinates order activities, maintains purchasing records, and helps identify new suppliers to ensure timely and cost-effective sourcing. The position requires strong communication, organizational, and computer skills to manage purchasing data and collaborate effectively with vendors and internal teams.ResponsibilitiesPlace and expedite purchase orders for materials, services, and commodities within assigned purchasing limits.Support the purchasing team by coordinating order activities and serving as backup when needed.Research and identify new suppliers and sources of supply to meet business needs.Prepare and coordinate Requests for Quotations (RFQs) for review and decision-making.Execute releases against established annual contracts in line with procurement guidelines.Maintain accurate purchasing records and complete required administrative tasks.Communicate with suppliers, internal teams, and external stakeholders regarding orders, delivery schedules, and procurement issues.Use computer systems to enter, track, and retrieve purchasing and inventory data.Build and maintain strong working relationships with vendors and internal departments.Draft clear business correspondence and communicate technical information when required.Evaluate price, quality, delivery, and terms when processing purchases to ensure best value.Perform additional procurement-related duties as assigned.Essential SkillsMinimum of 2 years of procurement or purchasing experience.Strong organizational skills to manage multiple orders, records, and deadlines.Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite (such as Excel, Word, and Outlook).Experience with purchasing and procurement processes.Ability to manage vendor relationships effectively.Ability to source and evaluate vendors and suppliers.Competence in using computer systems for data entry, tracking, and reporting.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience in vendor management and vendor sourcing.Background in inventory-related purchasing activities.Strong written communication skills for drafting business correspondence.Effective interpersonal skills for collaborating with internal departments and external partners.Attention to detail when reviewing quotations, contracts, and purchasing documentation.Ability to work in a growing organization with potential for long-term opportunities, though not guaranteed.Work EnvironmentThis role operates in an office-based environment using computer systems and Microsoft Office applications to manage purchasing and procurement activities. The position involves regular communication by email, phone, and online tools with vendors and internal teams. The organization is expanding, offering a dynamic setting with evolving processes and potential for permanent opportunities, although continuation is not guaranteed. Professional attire suitable for an office environment is typically expected.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Elizabeth City, NC.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $24.04 - $28.85/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:Medical, dental & visionCritical Illness, Accident, and Hospital401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions availableLife Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)Short and long-term disabilityHealth Spending Account (HSA)Transportation benefitsEmployee Assistance ProgramTime Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Elizabeth City, NC.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Aug 14, 2026.