Purchasing Agent

Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and dependable Purchasing Agent to support daily procurement operations within our manufacturing facility at Thermo Vac. This role is responsible for executing purchasing activities including issuing RFQs, creating purchase orders, and ensuring materials, subcontract services, and MRO supplies are delivered on time to support production schedules.

The Purchasing Agent works closely with Engineering, Production, and Accounting to ensure accurate purchasing and timely material flow in a fast-paced fabrication environment. This position plays a critical role in maintaining inventory accuracy, supplier communication, and production continuity.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

• Review purchasing requests, engineered drawings, and specifications to determine sourcing requirements.
• Generate RFQs and purchase orders using MRP/ERP software.
• Obtain and compare supplier pricing, lead times, and delivery options.
• Read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, and machining tolerances.
• Purchase outsourced manufactured components and fabrication services.
• Purchase MRO supplies for shop and office needs.
• Monitor open purchase orders and follow up daily to ensure timely delivery.
• Verify receipt of materials by comparing items received to purchase orders.
• Resolve shipping discrepancies and supplier issues as they arise.
• Maintain accurate purchasing data within the ERP system.
• Assist with supplier documentation and audit forms.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to purchasing efficiency and accuracy.

Experience & Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate’s degree preferred. 
• Minimum of 3 years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment required.

Required Qualifications

• Manufacturing purchasing experience.
• Experience using MRP/ERP systems (Epicor a plus).
• Ability to read technical drawings and weld symbols.
• Strong organizational and follow-up skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Basic negotiation experience preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience developing strategic sourcing initiatives in a fabrication or steel manufacturing environment.
• Experience supporting cost reduction and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Experience implementing or improving ERP purchasing modules.
• Background in inventory management and demand planning.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Combination of office and shop floor environments.
• Exposure to typical manufacturing conditions.
• Use of standard office equipment including computers, phones, printers, and copiers.
• May require walking through the shop floor to review parts, processes, or production requirements.

Disclaimer

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Responsibilities may evolve based on the needs of the fabrication shop or organization. 

Work Schedule:

•  Status: Full-Time, On-Site – (Location: Oxford, MI)
• Standard Hours: Monday – Friday, 40 hours per week
• Overtime: May be required based on production schedules or supplier needs
• Travel: Occasional supplier visits as needed

Benefits: 

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance: 

Health & Wellness

•  Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
•  Health Savings Account (HSA)
•  Life Insurance
•  Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 

Retirement & Financial Security

•  401(k) retirement plan with 4% company match
•  Tuition reimbursement for approved education and training
•  Allowances for safety shoes and prescription safety glasses 

Time Off

•  Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policy
•  9 paid holidays per year 

Company Culture

•  Regular employee appreciation events
•  Supportive, family-oriented work environment within a close-knit, small business setting
•  Continuous improvement opportunities encouraged and supported 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, gender, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.