Buyer / Supply Chain / Procurement / Inventory

Purchasing AgentLocation: Mendota Heights, MNDepartment: Production Planning & ControlReporting To: Master SchedulerType: Full-timeWhat You’ll Be Doing:As a Purchasing Agent, you will play a key role in ensuring the timely and cost-effective procurement of materials and goods that support production and operations. You’ll manage purchase orders, build strong supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and collaborate closely with internal teams to align purchasing activities with demand and inventory goals. Your work will directly impact cost control, material availability, and overall operational efficiency.A Day in the Life:Initiate, prepare, process, and verify purchase orders in accordance with established proceduresExpedite delayed orders and resolve issues related to changes, returns, replacements, and creditsMeet with internal stakeholders to review requisitions, material needs, and prioritiesCoordinate with production, planning, and other departments to ensure procurement needs are metMaintain accurate records of purchasing activities, supplier communications, and contractsEvaluate suppliers based on price, quality, delivery, responsiveness, and scorecard performanceConduct on-site supplier visits to assess capabilities, products, services, and pricingIdentify, evaluate, and qualify new suppliers to strengthen and diversify the supply baseAttend supplier meetings, trade shows, and industry events to stay current on market trendsNegotiate contracts, pricing, and terms to achieve cost savings and favorable agreementsAnalyze market trends and pricing proposals to ensure competitive sourcing decisionsTrack and report key purchasing metrics to improve efficiency and reduce costsMonitor inventory levels to ensure material availability while avoiding overstockingSupport Just-in-Time (JIT) initiatives, inventory reduction efforts, and purchasing consolidationForecast quantities and delivery requirements for high-volume materialsFollow all safety, medical, OSHA, and ISO compliance requirementsPerform other related duties as assignedYou’re a Great Fit If You:Have strong negotiation skills and can secure favorable pricing and contract termsAre comfortable analyzing market data, supplier proposals, and financial informationUnderstand end-to-end procurement processes and supplier managementHave experience managing contracts and ensuring compliance with termsPossess solid inventory management knowledge and demand planning skillsAre detail-oriented, organized, and accurate in documentation and recordkeepingSolve problems effectively and adapt to supply chain challengesCommunicate clearly and professionally with suppliers and internal teamsManage time well and thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environmentMake informed, timely decisions that support business objectivesAre proficient with ERP systems and Microsoft Office toolsDemonstrate strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindsetMaintain a strong commitment to safety and compliancePreferred Experience:APICS certification (CPIM, CSCP, or similar) preferredBachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management or a related field preferred3+ years of experience in purchasing or procurement within a manufacturing environmentValid Driver’s Licenses requiredDemonstrated experience purchasing raw materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, cold roll, hot roll, bar stock, hardware, and packaging materialsStrong understanding of material specifications and tolerancesExperience managing vendor scorecards and holding suppliers accountable for quality, delivery performance, pricing, compliance, and responsivenessProficiency with ERP systems (JobBOSS experience preferred)Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and related business toolsExperience in a manufacturing or job shop production environment preferredPhysical Requirements:Ability to see, hear, and maintain visual focus for detailed workFrequent standing, walking, and movement throughout the workdayRegular use of hands for handling, reaching, and operating office equipmentPhysical and mental stamina to maintain focus and accuracy over long shiftsAbility to regularly lift up to 25 lbs and occasionally up to 50 lbsWhy Work With Us?As a Purchasing Agent, you’ll be an integral part of a collaborative production and planning team where your decisions directly support manufacturing success. You’ll work closely with suppliers and internal partners, influence cost and inventory strategies, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in a stable, growth-oriented environment.Location:Saint Paul MNYou should be proficient in:ERP & MRP SystemsSupply Chain ManagementSourcing and Procurement ExperienceSupplier Negotiation ExperienceContract Negotiation ExperienceHigh School / GEDMicrosoft ExcelMachines & technologies you'll use:ERP Software

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