What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing Agent position at Aqua Creek Products?
About Aqua Creek Products
Aqua Creek Products is a family-owned manufacturer based in Missoula, Montana, specializing in water-based recreation equipment. Our products include ADA-compliant pool lifts, access chairs, and other innovative solutions designed to improve the quality of life for individuals of all abilities.
At Aqua Creek, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative, integrity-driven, and accountable company culture. Our team, comprising industry professionals from engineers to sales and shipping personnel, takes pride in delivering high-quality products that make a difference in people's lives. We believe in creating a welcoming, creative, and fun work environment, built on camaraderie and teamwork.
Position Overview
The Purchasing Agent plays a critical role in acquiring the materials, equipment, and services necessary to support our manufacturing operations. By maintaining an optimal supply chain and ensuring efficient procurement processes, this role is pivotal in enabling smooth and uninterrupted production operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Supplier Management:
- Research and evaluate potential suppliers based on quality, cost, reliability, and delivery capabilities.
- Build and maintain strong supplier relationships through consistent communication and collaboration.
- Visit supplier facilities and attend industry events to stay informed on market trends and emerging opportunities.
- Contract Negotiation:
- Lead negotiations with suppliers to secure favorable pricing, delivery schedules, and payment terms.
- Establish mutually beneficial agreements that align with organizational goals.
- Procurement and Inventory Management:
- Prepare, process, and manage purchase orders with accuracy and attention to detail.
- Monitor inventory levels through regular cycle counts and adjust purchasing plans as needed to avoid overstocking or shortages.
- Quality Assurance and Record-Keeping:
- Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to address quality issues and resolve discrepancies.
- Maintain detailed and organized records of procurement activities, ensuring compliance with company policies and audit requirements.
- Strategic Planning:
- Analyze market trends, supplier performance, and operational needs to inform purchasing strategies.
- Develop and execute cost-saving initiatives while maintaining product quality
- Qualifications and Skills
- Proven ability to negotiate contracts and pricing effectively.
- Strong analytical skills to assess market conditions and supplier capabilities.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to interact with suppliers and team members.
- Exceptional organizational skills to manage multiple procurement processes simultaneously.
- Proficiency in computer and telephone systems, with experience in procurement software being advantageous.
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of working independently while following company protocols.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $17.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
- No weekends
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
- Purchasing: 1 year (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Missoula, MT 59808 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $17
