Building Materials Purchasing & Supply Chain Specialist
Blue Sea DecorationPurchasing Specialist – Building Materials & Supply ChainPosition Overview As we continue to digitize and optimize our supply chain, we are looking for a detail-oriented and proactive Purchasing Specialist with a strong interest in building materials, supplier sourcing, and cost optimization. This role goes beyond data entry and inventory management. The ideal candidate will learn about our building materials and product specifications, identify and evaluate manufacturers, compare pricing and product quality, coordinate inspections, and develop reliable supplier relationships. You will also play an important role in improving our procurement processes by maintaining accurate purchasing data, organizing supplier information, and supporting the implementation of our Katana ERP system. Over time, this role will evolve into a more strategic position focused on supplier management, purchasing efficiency, and data-driven supply chain optimization. Key Responsibilities1. Material Knowledge & Product Evaluation Learn and develop a solid understanding of our building materials, including product specifications, dimensions, grades, packaging, and applications. Research and compare products from different manufacturers to evaluate quality, specifications, pricing, and suitability for our business needs. Maintain accurate product information, technical specifications, and supplier records. 2. Supplier Sourcing & Vendor Management Identify, research, and evaluate domestic and international manufacturers and suppliers of building materials. Request and compare quotations, negotiate pricing and payment terms, and assess overall purchasing costs. Build and maintain strong relationships with reliable suppliers to ensure competitive pricing, consistent quality, and dependable delivery. Communicate with manufacturers regarding product availability, production schedules, lead times, and order requirements. 3. Quality Control & Order Coordination Coordinate product inspections and verify that materials meet agreed specifications, quality standards, and order requirements. Arrange and conduct supplier or factory visits when necessary to assess manufacturing capabilities and product quality. Follow up on purchase orders, production progress, shipping schedules, and delivery discrepancies. Work with suppliers to resolve issues related to product defects, incorrect quantities, damaged goods, or delivery delays. 4. Purchasing Data & ERP Management Review and audit historical purchase orders, freight costs, and landed costs to establish accurate Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) data in ERP. Maintain accurate product, supplier, and purchasing records, including pricing, packaging, and unit-of-measure conversions. Establish and manage multiple Units of Measure (UOM), such as converting pallets or tons into bags or square feet. Enter and maintain supplier lead times, minimum order quantities (MOQ), and reorder points. 5. Inventory Planning & Cost Optimization Support ERP's automated purchasing and reorder functions to maintain appropriate inventory levels. Analyze purchasing trends, supplier pricing, freight costs, and inventory requirements to identify cost-saving opportunities. Help prevent stockouts, reduce excess inventory, and improve working capital efficiency. Continuously improve purchasing procedures and supplier data accuracy as our supply chain becomes increasingly automated. Qualifications 1–3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, sourcing, inventory control, or a related field. Experience or familiarity with building materials, construction supplies, industrial products, or manufacturing is a strong asset. Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to evaluate suppliers, compare quotations, and assess product quality. Good numerical skills and attention to detail, especially when working with product specifications, unit conversions, pricing, and landed costs. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and the ability to manage…