Project Materials & Cost Optimization Lead in Duluth

Job DescriptionJob Description

Position Overview 

We are seeking a proactive, detail-oriented professional to oversee all materials purchasing and cost management for our projects. This position is responsible for sourcing and pricing materials during the quoting stage, managing the materials budget throughout the project lifecycle, and continuously improving processes to achieve cost savings as the project advances. The ideal candidate will have experience in construction, millwork, or cabinetry environments and a passion for organization, accuracy, and teamwork. 

Key Responsibilities 

Estimating & Project Support 

• Collaborate with Estimators by providing up to date materials costs, researching solutions, and negotiating with vendors. 
• Review architectural plans, specifications, and project documents if needed to assist in confirming material requirements. 
• Solicit quotes from vendors and subcontractors; coordinate RFIs and follow up on project opportunities. 
• Ensure materials budgets for projects quoted are accurate. 

Purchasing  

• Source and price materials during the quoting stage, ensuring competitive bids and accurate budgeting. 
• Evaluate suppliers by considering price, quality, availability, and reliability for each project phase. 
• Collaborate with the factory inventory and Operations teams to ensure that existing inventory is utilized prior to initiating new purchases. 
• Setup deals and/or draft purchase orders for approval. 
• Input and maintain data in Purchase Requisition spreadsheets, and Sage 50 accounting system. 
• Coordinate with suppliers to schedule deliveries and resolve shipping errors. 
• Review purchase orders for accuracy (product, quantity, price, delivery date) and ensure timely receipt of merchandise. 

Administrative & Office Support 

• Maintain organizational files and records; set up and manage project files according to company standards. 
• Create and maintain detailed spreadsheets for tracking bids, quotes, and project progress. 
• Update information in internal systems as required. 
• Order, proof, and submit finish samples for materials as required for approval. 

Reporting Requirements 

• Maintain a clean purchase order register. 
• Complete purchase requisitions with PO#, date ordered, and ETA. 
• Ensure purchasing status and material ETA fields are up to date. 
• Provide necessary material information to the operations team at kickoff, production meetings, and as needed. 
• Provide materials Budget VS. Actual report at completion of the purchasing phase of each project. 

Skills & Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of related experience or training in construction, millwork, cabinetry, or a similar environment. 
• Ability to read and interpret architectural plans, specifications, and design drawings. 
• Proficient mathematical and analytical skills. 
• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel, MS Word. 
• Exceptional time management, organizational, and prioritization skills. 
• Strong attention to detail and ethical conduct. 
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment. 
• Self-starter, problem solver, and able to assess situations and react appropriately. 

Company DescriptionWe are a solutions-oriented manufacturer of wood and stone product for hotels. Our customers have strong long-term relationships with us because we care about the product and their best interests first. We do what we say we are going to do and we have a can do attitude.Company DescriptionWe are a solutions-oriented manufacturer of wood and stone product for hotels. Our customers have strong long-term relationships with us because we care about the product and their best interests first. We do what we say we are going to do and we have a can do attitude.