Purchasing Agent

Job Title: Purchasing Agent Job Description This role supports a fast-growing automation and robotics manufacturer that designs, builds, and installs complete automated manufacturing systems. The Purchasing Agent manages the procurement of materials, components, and services needed to build custom automation solutions, including collaborative robotic systems used in manufacturing, packaging, food and beverage, and industrial production environments. The person in this role ensures a reliable, cost-effective supply chain by overseeing supplier relationships, negotiating pricing and agreements, and optimizing inventory and material planning within an ERP/MRP environment. Responsibilities Manage the end-to-end purchasing process for materials, components, and services required to support automated manufacturing system production. Issue, track, and manage purchase orders to ensure timely delivery of goods and services in alignment with project schedules and production needs. Oversee inventory control and material planning to maintain appropriate stock levels while minimizing excess inventory and avoiding shortages. Conduct RFQ (Request for Quote) sourcing activities, including identifying potential suppliers, obtaining quotes, and performing cost and value analyses. Select suppliers based on quality, cost, delivery performance, and alignment with project and organizational requirements. Negotiate pricing, terms, and supplier agreements to achieve cost reductions and favorable commercial conditions. Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, fostering collaboration, reliability, and continuous improvement. Monitor supplier performance and address issues related to quality, delivery, and service to ensure consistent supply and support. Utilize ERP/MRP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Epicor, or similar platforms to manage purchasing, material planning, and supply chain data. Coordinate closely with internal teams such as engineering, operations, and production to align purchasing activities with project requirements and timelines. Use Microsoft Excel and other tools to analyze purchasing data, track spend, identify cost-saving opportunities, and support decision-making. Support global sourcing and import activities as needed, ensuring compliance with relevant processes and documentation. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the purchasing and supply chain function, focusing on efficiency, cost reduction, and process optimization. Essential Skills 3+ years of purchasing, procurement, or supply chain experience. Manufacturing purchasing experience, preferably in an automated or industrial manufacturing environment. Experience working in a manufacturing environment, strongly preferred. Supplier management and vendor negotiation experience, including pricing and supplier agreement negotiations. ERP/MRP system experience with platforms such as SAP, Oracle, Epicor, or similar systems. Experience with purchase order management, inventory control, and material planning. RFQ sourcing, supplier selection, and cost reduction experience. Strong Microsoft Excel skills for data analysis and reporting. Excellent communication and relationship management skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities and support project timelines in a dynamic production environment. Additional Skills & Qualifications Bachelors degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, or a related field preferred. Experience in industrial manufacturing environments. Experience working with heavy equipment or construction equipment purchasing. Experience purchasing mechanical components, such as fabricated parts, assemblies, or hardware. Experience purchasing electrical components, such as wiring, controls, or electrical assemblies. MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) purchasing experience. Global sourcing and import experience, including working with international suppliers. Strong analytical mindset with a focus on cost reduction and process im…

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