Purchasing Agent and Starts Coordinator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary

The Purchasing Agent / Starts Coordinator is responsible for managing all aspects of the home start process, including plan and file creation, permitting, purchase order issuance, and internal coordination. This position requires a strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate across departments to ensure a smooth and timely construction start for every home. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, solution-oriented, and aligned with our company’s values.

Essential Responsibilities

• Embody and promote our core values.

• Ensure all homeowners, internal teams, vendors, and partners receive outstanding service.

• Receive, review, and organize incoming sales files for new home starts, ensuring accuracy and usability throughout the construction process.

• Order and review lot-specific plans for accuracy and alignment with customer selections.

• Apply for and track permits for each home, ensuring timely submission and consistent follow-up with municipalities.

• Monitor and meet pre-construction timelines (goal: within 60 days).

• Identify and resolve file discrepancies before construction begins.

• Manage required buyer signoffs and ensure documentation is accessible to relevant team members.

• Maintain clean, organized digital and physical files for all home starts.

• Collaborate with Sales, Purchasing, and Construction to improve processes and eliminate inefficiencies.

• Work with the Purchasing Manager to improve base plans and increase overall accuracy.

• Maintain and update the Construction Starts Log; generate reports on backlog and progress.

• Issue and audit all purchase and work orders prior to construction start.

• Approve vendor invoices related to scope of work.

• Review and forecast potential “start gaps”; notify leadership of any trends or risks.

• Help hold the Sales team accountable to deadlines related to file completion.

• Co-lead the Production Starts Meeting; provide updates, identify roadblocks, and advocate for tools and resources needed.

• Code and approve relevant expenditures; maintain a strong understanding of project budgets.

• Proactively identify opportunities to improve processes and enhance internal and external experiences.

• Maintain regular, punctual attendance and professional communication.

Additional Responsibilities

• Support the training and ongoing education of Sales and Construction teams on start process protocols and systems.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management or a related field preferred.

• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in residential construction, production, or purchasing.

• OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience that ensures success in this role.

Software & Systems Experience

• Working knowledge of back office of ECI (MarkSystems/ITK) .

• Familiarity with InSearch interactive design option platform.

Core Competencies

• Strong organizational and planning skills.

• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

• Detail-oriented with strong follow-up habits.

• Collaborative team player with a proactive, problem-solving mindset.

• Technologically proficient and adaptable to multiple systems and platforms.

Conditions of Employment

• Pass a criminal background check and social security verification.

• Pass a pre-employment drug screening.

• Provide valid proof of eligibility to work in the United States.

• Possess a valid Texas driver’s license within 30 days of employment.

Tools & Equipment Used

• iPad, smartphone, laptop, and related office technology.

• May require use of protective safety equipment (e.g., hard hats, gloves, goggles, boots).

• Occasional use of hand tools or light equipment.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Outdoor work in all weather conditions; exposure to construction environments and job site noise.

• Must be able to travel to nearby job sites; reliable personal transportation is required.

• Must be able to:

  • Stand and/or sit for extended periods.

  • Lift, carry, or adjust materials up to 25 lbs.

  • Perform physical activities including bending, climbing, squatting, and twisting.

  • Communicate effectively via hearing and speech; perform tasks requiring close vision.

Work Schedule & Travel

• Standard work hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (40 hours per week).

• Occasional after-hours calls or extended hours may be required.

• Occasional travel is required for job site visits, company events, or team collaboration.