Purchasing Assistant

• Data entry of purchase orders for component parts, outside processing services, and finished goods
• Ensure all purchase orders include accurate costs, specifications, and delivery dates before submission
• Maintain detailed process notes from the company ERP system on all outside processing purchase orders
• Communicate purchase order changes, rejections, and delivery date updates to all relevant stakeholders

• Maintain positive, professional relationships with vendors through courteous phone and email communication
• Monitor vendor compliance with purchase order costs, delivery dates, and terms and conditions
• Obtain multiple quotes for new purchase requests to ensure competitive pricing
• Work with the General Manager to address vendor performance issues and eliminate non-compliant practices
• Follow up on rejection reports and coordinate replacement of rejected materials

• Support cost reduction initiatives by helping to source products at the lowest possible cost without compromising quality
• Escalate any cost increases to the General Manager for approval prior to issuing purchase orders
• Work to eliminate unnecessary charges such as lot fees on outside processing orders
• Utilize historical pricing data appropriately while remaining vigilant about outdated costs

• Conduct weekly follow-ups on late purchase orders every Friday using system-generated reports
• Initiate follow-up emails to vendors regarding outstanding deliveries
• Use calendar reminders and task management tools to track outstanding items
• Update the ERP system promptly to reflect delivery date changes and material rejections
• Keep production, planning, and other departments informed of procurement status

• Develop and maintain knowledge of materials (tubing, flat bar, sheet metal, fasteners, etc.) and their applications
• Take detailed notes to build expertise in vendor relationships and purchasing processes
• Participate in collaborative problem-solving with the team to address challenges
• Focus on root cause analysis to prevent recurring issues
• Support just-in-time and Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) inventory management practices

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Proficiency with ERP/purchasing software systems (experience with SAGE or similar platforms preferred)
• Competency in Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and other Office applications
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Strong analytical skills for cost comparison and vendor evaluation

• 1-2 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain support
• Familiarity with manufacturing materials and outside processing services
• Experience with vendor negotiation and relationship management
• Knowledge of inventory management principles (JIT, EOQ)

• Accountability: Takes ownership of purchase orders through successful receipt of all items
• Communication: Proactively shares information and escalates roadblocks appropriately
• Continuous Improvement: Learns from mistakes and implements solutions to prevent recurrence
• Collaboration: Works effectively with cross-functional teams including production, planning, and management
• Problem-Solving: Focuses on solutions rather than defending past actions

Remote Raven