Auction Purchasing Specialist

General Position Summary & Responsibilities

The Auction Purchasing Specialist is responsible for independently sourcing, evaluating, andacquiringvehicles through online auction platforms and approvedpurchasingchannels. The position exercises discretion and independent judgment in evaluating vehicle opportunities, assessing market conditions,determiningbidding strategies, and making vehicle acquisition decisions within established authority levels. This role directly supports inventory availability,purchasingobjectives, and profitability goals and serves as a developmental progression toward the Car Buyer position.

This position offers competitive pay along with a variety of benefits including medical, dental and vision plans for both you and your dependents; 401k with company match, paid time off which starts with your first check, and paid holidays.

• Source vehicles through online auction platforms and approved acquisition channels based on inventory needs and purchasing priorities.
• Review auction listings, vehicle condition reports, title information, transportation costs, and market indicators to assess acquisition suitability.
• Analyze vehicle condition reports, market demand, title status, transportation costs, and resale potential todetermineacquisition value.
• Participate in auction activity by preparing bids, tracking live opportunities, and executing purchases within assigned parameters
• Commitcompany funds through vehicle acquisition decisions that directlyimpactinventory levels and margins.
• Monitor vehicle availability, market movement, and inventory gaps to support timely acquisition planning.
• Document purchasing activity and maintain accurate records related to bids, purchases, and acquisition outcomes.
• Support achievement of vehicle acquisition goals by identifying viable opportunities and following established purchasing procedures.

• Maintain productive working relationships with auction partners, transportation providers, and industry contacts.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for assigned operational online purchasing initiatives.
• Identify new online sourcing opportunities and resale channels to improve acquisition results.

• Ensure accuracy of vehicle purchase records, title documentation, and transaction files.
• Coordinate with Accounting, Operations, Transportation, and Purchasing teamsregardingpayments and vehicle movement.
• Review acquisition expenses andpurchasingactivityto ensure alignment with company objectives.
• Support inventory planning through strategic purchasing recommendations and execution.

• Make independent recommendations regarding which vehicles present acceptable acquisition value based on condition, demand, cost, and resale potential.
• Apply judgment when determining whether to pursue, pass on, or escape vehicle acquisition opportunities.
• Establish bid limits and purchasing approaches within assigned authority levels and company guidelines.
• Commit company funds for approved vehicle purchases within established approval thresholds.
• Evaluate purchasing risk, including title concerns, transportation cost exposure, marketability, and margin potential.
• Influence profitability through sound purchasing judgment and disciplined acquisition decisions.

• Collaborate with Regional Purchasing Managers and field-based Car Buyers to support inventory objectives.

• Partner with the Vehicle Title and Logistics teams to provide timely responses to inquiries regarding vehicle purchases, documentation status, and auction activity.

• Assist with special projects and purchasing initiatives as assigned.

• Follow all company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure purchasing activities are conducted in compliance with company guidelines.
• Participate in proactive efforts to improve departmental processes and performance.
• Report unsafe conditions and activities to management.

Supports Internal Control process which includes understanding, communicating, and complying with defined internal controls as well as suggesting and making modifications to the policies, procedures, and controls to better match the business.

Communicates upward problems in operations, noncompliance with the code of conduct, or other policy violations or illegal actions.

This position is primarily office-based, with significant use of computer systems and web-based purchasing platforms. Occasional travel to company locations and industry events or training is required. Noise levels are moderate, consistent with typical office and auction environments, and the role may involve occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions.

• Associates Degree or equivalent experience in vehicle purchasing, automotive sales, auctions, inventory management, or a related field preferred.
• Strong knowledge of vehicle makes,…