Purchasing Specialist

Job DescriptionJob Description

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Processes approved requisitions, prepares purchase orders and sends copies to vendors and to originating departments
• Review requisition orders for accuracy and proper line-item specifications.
• Support category management with supplier development initiatives, cost savings, and overall value .
• Utilize ERP systems (Genius) and other digital tools to manage sourcing events, analyze spend data, update order status, and maintain supplier agreements.
• Conduct benchmarking studies and financial modeling to support strategic procurement decisions.
• Respond to vendor inquiries regarding orders, delivery requirements, changes, or cancellations.
• Provide and confirm status on all open and late orders via email or phone; confirm shipping dates with vendors; and monitor shipping notices to proactively mitigate delays.
• Monitor supplier performance and track open orders to ensure timely delivery of materials and services.
• Coordinate with vendors, logistics, warehouse, and engineering teams to resolve delays, expedite critical items, and maintain optimal material flow.
• Perform root cause analysis on late deliveries and implement corrective actions with suppliers.
• Maintain and report KPIs related to supplier performance, delivery accuracy, and lead time adherence
• Manage vendor returns and discrepancies through return merchandise authorizations (RMAs) in collaboration with Accounts Payable
• Prepare, maintain, and review purchasing files, work orders, job lists, price lists, reports, and supplier documentation.
• Research contracts, suppliers, and new products to ensure compliance with budgetary and regulatory guidelines.
• Manage ordering of DSC warehouse and yard inventory items, as well as all corporate office supplies, while maintaining appropriate stock levels.
• Process daily inventory transactions and ensure ERP records are updated when changes occur to DSC inventory items.
• Maintain strong business relationships with suppliers to ensure collaboration, responsiveness, and expedited support when required.
• Report major shipping problems and risks to the purchasing agent and leadership team.
• Provide administrative support for the Front Office on an as-needed basis.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

High school degree or GED. Associate’s degree (AA) or Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university in a related field is but not required. 2-3 years experience of purchasing or accounting. Previous experience of working in a shipping receiving or inventory environment is or equivalent combination of education and experience.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
• Willingness to continually embrace personal and professional development.
• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office & ERP (Genius).
• Passion for working in a values based company in alignment with a learning organization.
• Must be eighteen years of .
• Demonstrates a passion and a responsibility for company and product.
• Exhibits a passion for the company’s vision, values and focus on safety first.
• Desire to own decisions and take responsibility for outcomes.
• Ability to effectively manage multiple project timelines while remaining organized.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and remain flexible to change.
• Ability to maintain effective relationships at multiple locations.
• Must be able to successfully pass all pre-employment testing (drug test, physical) in addition to random drug and alcohol testing.
• High-level of accuracy and attention to detail.