Purchasing Specialist

Job Description

Posted Friday, August 14, 2026 at 5:00 AM

The vision of Southern Carlson is to develop strong business relationships so we understand our customers' individual needs and provide the best possible service to improve our and their profitability.

Location: Phoenix, AZ
Schedule: Monday – Friday | Full-Time
Compensation: Based on experience

Southern Carlson is a leading distributor of the most recognized brands of construction and packaging tools, fasteners, jobsite supplies, and expert service across North America. Since 1947, we’ve built our foundation on service, trust, and a commitment to providing professional-grade solutions that keep our customers running strong.

We offer the broadest selection of high-quality products from top suppliers in the industry—backed by tool repair services, reliable expertise, and a passion for helping contractors, builders, and manufacturers succeed.

At Southern Carlson,
Our Promise Means More™—because how we serve matters just as much as what we deliver.

Respect – We build relationships on trust, collaboration, and kindness while taking the time to learn, grow, and celebrate wins together.

Integrity – We go above and beyond to help customers and employees and do what’s right to resolve issues.

Teamwork – We support and encourage one another while working together to deliver a top-notch customer experience.

Family Environment – We’re a nationwide company with a local, family-like feel at every branch.

The Purchasing Specialistparticipatesin all aspects ofpurchasingand inventory control for assigned brands and divisions.

This roleis responsible for executing purchaseactivities,ensuring thatbest decisions are made to match departmental & organizationalobjectivesand goals.

• Research and issue general merchandise purchase orders for assigned brands and divisions while ensuring the best costefficienciesat all times.
• Track andmaintainpurchase orders by confirming lead times, deliverydates,and current cost ensuring order accuracy.
• Prepare and/or review purchase requisitions.
• Review order replenishment reports and replenish inventory.
• Monitor inventory levels and ensure stocking levels aremaintainedand updated.
• Coordinatereal-timeproduct delivery status with distribution centers and stores.
• Prepare andmaintainpurchasing reports including but not limited to spend analysis, over and under stocked items & vendor fill rates and lead times.
• Work closely with key suppliers to support a strong supply chain andmaintainsuccessful relationships while ensuring delivery and quality issues are resolved timely.
• Assistmerchandising team with promotions, new stockingrequests, updated price sheets, and vendor communications.
• Investigate inventory discrepancies and order variances.
• Adhere topurchasingprocesses and procedures.
• Handle month end activities related to inventory and purchasing.
• Support department and other key stakeholders with purchasing and inventory initiatives.
• Participate in special projects and perform other duties as assigned.

• Associatedegreeor equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5 or more years of related experiencepurchasingforadistribution organization.
• Strong mathematicaland analytical skills.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize accordingly.
• Skilledin communicating effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability toestablishand maintain effective working relationships.
• Knowledgeofthe ability toutilizebasic technology and online tools.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel,PowerPoint and Outlookwith an intermediate to advancedskill level In Excel.

Collaborative Family Culture – Team-first environment built on trust and respect

Career Growth Opportunities – We promote from within and support long-term success

401(k) with Company Match

Paid Time Off and Holidays

All offers are contingent on a successful background check and drug screening.

Southern Carlson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Southern Carlson, Inc. is an equal opportunity at will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation or national origin.