Purchasing Clerk

Company Summary

Managed through the Riverbend Industries portfolio, American Wheatley is a leading manufacturer of ASME stock and custom hydronic and pressure tanks. American Wheatley is also a distributor of related valves and other components used across a wide array of industrial applications. American Wheatley leverages more than forty years of experience, a robust assortment of specialty HVAC hydronic systems and technology, and a commitment to speedy, quality work to ensure clients receive the right product for their jobs.

Riverbend Industries (RBI) is a private family-owned portfolio holding company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The portfolio is primarily comprised of several small, independently operated, previously family-run businesses in the light manufacturing and distribution sectors. The portfolio is a long-term holder of its investments/assets and plans to grow both organically and through acquisitions into the foreseeable future.

Summary

The Purchasing Clerk initiates, prepares, processes, and verifies purchase orders following established guidelines to purchase materials and goods by required delivery dates. This role will help to clarify needs, evaluate and assist with determining suppliers, generate and place orders, and work closely with the engineering and production teams. Reporting to the Senior Procurement Specialist, the Purchasing Clerk expedites delayed orders and resolves issues with changes, returns, replacements, and credit arrangements.

• Lead by example with a Safety First mindset in every task
• Provides administrative and clerical support to the Purchasing Department
• Process purchase orders and documents in accordance with company policies and procedures
• Negotiate terms with suppliers such as price, deadlines and expectations
• Maintains a recordkeeping system for the purchasing department
• Coordinates with managers to maintain inventory levels
• Track orders and ensuring timely delivery
• Ensure that purchasing documents are complete and accurate and include appropriate and reasonable terms and conditions
• Expedite and assist with the troubleshooting of orders as needed.
• Additional duties as assigned

Education, Experience & Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• At least two years of purchasing experience required.
• At least two years of clerical experience preferred.

Skills & Characteristics

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with proven negotiation skills
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Thorough understanding of purchasing procedures and policies
• Self-motivated and a positive attitude
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software

Physical Requirements

The following physical activities are essential for performing the core responsibilities of this position. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities as per the ADA.

• Mobility: Must be able to access all areas of the facility to determine purchasing needs.
• Lifting/Carrying: Ability to lift and carry items up to 15 pounds on a regular basis.
• Bending/Stooping: Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or reach to perform tasks (e.g., retrieving items, accessing low areas).
• Reaching: Ability to reach overhead or extend arms forward to perform job-related tasks.
• Manual Dexterity: Ability to use hands for fine motor tasks (e.g., typing, handling tools, or operating machinery).
• Vision: Ability to see clearly (with or without correction) to perform job tasks (e.g., reading documents, observing equipment, etc.).
• Hearing: Ability to hear (with or without hearing aids) to effectively communicate with others and understand verbal instructions or safety alerts.
• Communication: Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, as this position may require interacting with colleagues, clients, and supervisors.
• Sitting: Ability to sit for extended periods (typically 1-2 hours) as required for certain job tasks (e.g., working at a desk, computer, or driving).

Reasonable accommodations: The employer will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities, to enable them to perform essential job functions, unless doing so would create an undue hardship.