Purchasing​/Inventory Agent

Position Purpose

The Purchasing Inventory Agent is responsible for supporting procurement and inventory operations by reviewing requisitions, processing purchase orders, coordinating vendor communications, and managing inventory and equipment-related activities. This role ensures timely acquisition of materials, accurate inventory control, efficient repair coordination, and cost-effective purchasing decisions to support organizational operations.

Inspire Development Centers provides early Childhood Education (ECE) and social services to 3,110 children in center‑based and home‑based setting, at more than 25 Child Development Centers (CDC) throughout the State of Washington. At these sites, Inspire employs over 1,000 staff on a $52 million annual budget. Inspire provides these services under various federal and state funded programs with differing regulations and stipulations, which must be coordinated and adhered to, including, but not limited to:
Regional Head Start (RHS), Migrant Seasonal Head Start (MSHS), Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), and Early Head Start (EHS). The organization is required to meet an annual quota of non‑federal share (in‑kind) funds. A large majority of children’s first language is Spanish. Over the past 40 years, Inspire has strategically and incrementally increased its capacity to address the rapidly changing needs of its families and communities.

Purchasing / Inventory Agent reports to the Purchasing Inventory Manager and works closely with other IDC personnel and the general public.

• Review purchase requisitions for completeness, accuracy, budget coding, and proper allocation. Generate and process purchase orders in accordance with company policies and procedures. Ensure appropriate support documentation is attached.
• Place orders with approved vendors and suppliers. Obtain quotes, bids, and pricing information as needed. Compare products, pricing, warranties, and delivery timelines to identify best‑value purchasing options. Maintain positive working relationships with vendors and service providers. Track orders and manage order logistics to ensure timely delivery and issue resolution. Follow up on delayed shipments, backorders, and discrepancies. Coordinate employee business travel and company events by arranging flights, accommodations, booking venues, and ground transportation while ensuring schedules and company travel policies were followed.
• Conduct routine equipment and inventory audits to ensure inventory accuracy and accountability. Maintain inventory records and update inventory management systems. Assign Equipment Property Tags to new equipment. Add new equipment to Asset Tracking System. Assist in identifying obsolete, damaged, or surplus inventory items.
• Manage incoming facility and equipment repair tickets. Evaluate repair requests and conduct repair‑versus‑replacement analysis. Provide recommendations regarding equipment maintenance, repair, or replacement. Coordinate service calls with vendors, technicians, and internal departments. Track repair status and ensure timely completion of work orders.
• Provide ongoing technical support and training to internal buyers. Follow‑up on outstanding Purchase Orders per P.O. Status Report.
• Maintain vehicle registration files to ensure that all vehicle licensing is current.
• Assist the Purchasing/Inventory Manager with maintenance of the leasehold, land, building, and project(s) file. Coordinate the repair of special equipment.
• Show interest in furthering professional growth by attending staff meetings, workshops, trainings, and seminars.
• Maintain confidentiality of program and client related information at all times.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

• High School Diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate, plus additional training in specialized or technical field;
• Experience working in a federally funded and regulated environment;
• Experience in policy and procedure development;
• Experience in strategic planning and facilitating planning groups;
• Experie…