Assistant Purchasing Agent

The Purchasing Agent / Buyer is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and coordinating the timely delivery of industrial pipe, fittings, valves, flanges, and related piping materials. This position works closely with vendors, sales, warehouse, operations, and project management to ensure materials are purchased at competitive prices, meet required specifications, and arrive within established delivery schedules.

The ideal candidate has experience purchasing industrial products, understands material specifications and industry standards, forecasting inventory needs, and possesses strong organizational, communication, problem-solving skills, and a Team oriented mindset.

• Prepare and process purchase orders for industrial pipe, fittings, valves, flanges, and related materials.
• Source products from approved suppliers and identify new vendors as needed.
• Request, review, and compare vendor quotations for pricing, availability, freight, and delivery schedules.
• Ensure materials meet customer requirements, purchase order specifications, and applicable industry standards.
• Monitor open purchase orders and follow up with vendors to ensure on-time delivery.
• Identify opportunities to reduce purchasing costs while maintaining quality and service.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records, vendor information, and order documentation.

• Develop and maintain productive relationships with suppliers and manufacturers.
• Coordinate with warehouse and inventory personnel regarding stock levels, incoming materials, and backorders.
• Identify alternate sources for hard-to-find, long-lead, or specialty materials.
• Help maintain appropriate inventory levels based on demand, sales forecasts, and operational needs.
• Resolve supplier discrepancies, shortages, damaged materials, and incorrect shipments.

• Work closely with sales representatives to support customer quotations, orders, and delivery commitments.
• Coordinate with warehouse, receiving, and operations teams to ensure materials are received and documented properly.
• Communicate delays, shortages, price changes, and purchasing issues promptly.
• Assist with expediting urgent orders and resolving supply chain challenges.
• Support management with purchasing reports, cost comparisons, and supplier performance information.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous purchasing / buying experience or industrial distribution, piping, valves, fittings, manufacturing, or a related industry experience required.
• Additional education in supply chain management, business, or purchasing is preferred but not required.
• Ability to read and interpret product specifications, material descriptions, and purchase orders.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace and ERP or inventory management systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.