Purchasing Specialist - Point Mountain East

Specialist, Purchasing

The Purchasing Specialist is a vital contributor to operational efficiency, responsible for procuring high-quality parts and supplies at optimal prices to support equipment and plant maintenance. This role involves coordinating schedules and routes for the Parts Runner to ensure timely deliveries, managing inventory levels to prevent disruptions, and maintaining strong vendor relationships to secure favorable terms and reliable service. By streamlining procurement processes and fostering collaboration, the Purchasing Specialist directly impacts the company's ability to meet its operational and strategic objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Customer Service & Internal Support:
• Assist mechanics and drivers at the parts counter, ensuring they have the necessary supplies and tools to complete their tasks efficiently.
• Respond promptly and professionally to internal requests regarding parts availability, delivery timelines, and special orders.
• Collaborate with team members to prioritize and support ongoing repairs, maintenance tasks, and emergency breakdowns.
• Provide accurate and detailed information to mechanics, drivers, and supervisors about parts specifications and compatibility.
• Address and resolve issues related to delayed or incorrect parts orders to minimize downtime.
• Conduct follow-ups to ensure internal customers are satisfied with the parts provided and address any concerns.
• Train internal team members on procurement, and parts request procedures to streamline communication and improve efficiency.
• May be responsible for supervising and coordinating the work of the Parts Runner at the assigned location.
• Inventory Management:
• As a complementary function to support the Inventory Team, help maintain optimal stock levels by ensuring items are available when needed, including assisting with ordering and tracking activities.
• In support of the Inventory Team, assist in cross-referencing and updating inventory across warehouse locations, making corrections as needed and reporting findings.
• To aid and reinforce Inventory Team efforts, help conduct periodic physical stock checks and comprehensive inventory audits to identify discrepancies, correct errors, and support necessary stock adjustments.
• As part of a supporting role to the Inventory Team, assist in maintaining accurate, up-to-date inventory records for all parts, supplies, and equipment, ensuring data reflects current stock levels.
• Purchasing & Procurement:
• Research, compare, and negotiate with vendors to obtain the best pricing, quality, and service for parts, tools, and other materials.
• Purchase inventory and repair parts for equipment, vehicles, and plant maintenance, ensuring timely delivery to minimize operational downtime.
• Purchase and replace broken tools, maintaining accurate tracking of inventory and transactions as governed by the appropriate collective bargaining agreement.
• Establish and maintain long-term relationships with key suppliers to ensure reliable sourcing and favorable terms.
• Develop and implement purchasing strategies to optimize costs, streamline procurement processes, and reduce lead times.
• Monitor and manage backorders, proactively communicating with vendors and internal teams to minimize delays.
• Maintain an up-to-date database of approved vendors, price lists, and purchase agreements for easy reference and efficient procurement.
• Collaborate with department heads and supervisors to anticipate and forecast parts and supply needs based on project timelines and maintenance schedules.
• Ensure proper documentation of purchase orders, receipts, and invoices, reconciling any discrepancies promptly.
• Stay updated on industry trends, new technologies, and alternative suppliers to enhance procurement decision-making.
• Freight Handling & Delivery:
• Receive, unload, inspect, and verify condition of delivered parts and equipment, to include operating a forklift.
• Ensure accurate tracking of received freight, including core returns, credits, and packing slips.
• Fill in for and perform duties of Parts Clerk as needed.
• Parts Room Maintenance:
• Keep the parts room clean and organized by conducting regular cleaning and organizational…