Job Title: Purchasing Specialist
Department: Procurement / Supply Chain
Location: South Charlotte
Reports To: Operations Manager / Supply Chain Manager
FLSA Status: Exempt
Job Type: Full-time
Starting Salary: $50,000+ (Based on Experience)
Position Summary:
We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Purchasing Specialist to oversee the procurement of raw materials, MRO supplies, and specialty items for a fast-paced metal fabrication operation. The ideal candidate will bring strong negotiation skills, industry-specific purchasing experience, and a deep understanding of materials and manufacturing processes. This position plays a critical role in ensuring timely, cost-effective, and quality-compliant supply chain operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Source, negotiate, and purchase materials (primarily steel, aluminum, and fabrication-related items) to support production requirements.
- Ensure all purchase orders meet technical and quality specifications, including material type, grade, size, and finish.
- Maintain accurate records of pricing, lead times, and vendor performance.
- Monitor material usage and inventory levels using ERP/MRP systems to avoid shortages or excesses.
- Coordinate closely with engineering, production, and quality control teams to align material needs with job schedules.
- Track and follow up on orders to ensure timely delivery; resolve delays or discrepancies with vendors.
- Verify certifications, mill test reports, and material compliance with ISO 9001 or other relevant standards.
- Develop and maintain relationships with a network of reliable suppliers for metals, tooling, and MRO items.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities through vendor consolidation, bulk ordering, or alternate sourcing.
- Respond quickly and effectively to supply chain disruptions, backorders, or emergency procurement needs.
- Collaborate with the finance department to reconcile invoices and resolve discrepancies.
- Ensure compliance with internal purchasing policies and procedures.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and support lean purchasing practices.
Qualifications & Skills:
1. Industry Knowledge:
- Strong understanding of metals (carbon steel, stainless, aluminum) and fabrication processes
- Knowledge of tolerances, machining needs, welding, and cutting
2. Negotiation & Vendor Management:
- Proven ability to negotiate pricing, delivery terms, and payment schedules
- Experience managing vendor relationships while balancing cost and quality
3. Accuracy & Attention to Detail:
- Strong focus on detail in purchase specs, PO entry, certifications, and invoicing
4. Time Management:
- Ability to manage multiple POs and prioritize critical-path materials effectively
5. Vendor Sourcing:
- Experience sourcing specialty or hard-to-find materials
- Established relationships with metal, tooling, and MRO suppliers preferred
6. ERP/MRP Proficiency:
- Working knowledge of ERP/MRP platforms such as JobBOSS, Epicor, SAP, or similar
- Skilled in managing reorder points, job costing, and inventory tracking
7. Analytical & Cost-Focused:
- Ability to analyze usage trends and identify cost savings or inefficiencies
8. Communication & Collaboration:
- Works closely with production, engineering, and quality teams
- Professional and diplomatic communication with external vendors
9. Compliance Awareness:
- Familiar with ISO 9001 and quality documentation (e.g., COAs, MTRs, certs)
10. Adaptability & Problem-Solving:
- Quick thinking in supply chain disruptions or emergency sourcing situations
- Creative, solution-oriented mindset
Preferred Qualifications:
- APICS CPIM, CSCP, or ISM CPSM certification a plus
- Experience with lean manufacturing and/or JIT systems
Education & Experience:
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Manufacturing, or a related field preferred
- 3+ years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing or fabrication environment required
