Purchasing Clerk

JOB SUMMARY

The Purchasing Clerk is responsible for negotiating effectively with suppliers to secure the best prices and terms while ensuring the continuous availability of goods and materials. This role requires a strong understanding of market trends, product knowledge, and persuasive communication skills. The Purchasing Clerk is also responsible for tracking inventory levels, adjusting procurement strategies to meet operational demands, and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers to support long-term business success.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES, FUNCTIONS, AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Act as a self-starter with the ability to work independently with little to no supervision.
• Conduct inventory cycle counts and end-of-year (EOY) inventory assessments.
• Work in environments with temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Communicate effectively with customers, vendors, and internal departments through verbal and written correspondence.
• Maintain organized and accurate records for efficient information retrieval.
• Prioritize and complete multiple tasks throughout the day using strong time management skills.
• Review and process purchase orders, verifying accuracy in product specifications, pricing, and delivery schedules.
• Maintain and update supplier records, including contact details, product offerings, and historical pricing data.
• Monitor stock levels and coordinate with department managers to ensure optimal inventory control.
• Negotiate supplier terms, including pricing, delivery schedules, and payment conditions, to secure advantageous agreements.
• Resolve order discrepancies, such as incorrect shipments, damaged goods, and billing errors.
• Collaborate with the accounting department to ensure timely invoice payments and reconcile billing discrepancies.
• Perform additional job-related duties as assigned, with a willingness to cross-train in other departments.
• Exhibit exemplary attendance and punctuality.
• Comply with company policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION & RELATED EXPERIENCE

• A high school diploma or equivalent GED is required.
• 3 to 5 years of experience in vendor management and purchasing operations.
• Exceptional Customer Success Experience.
• Industry-relevant production experience is preferred.
• A valid driver's license and the ability to be covered under the Company's automobile insurance is required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of the procurement cycle and a proven record of procurement and cost management across materials and supplies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• High ethical standards, the ability to think strategically, and strong problem-solving skills.
• The ability to communicate information effectively through speaking, active listening, and accurately presenting information to others.
• The ability to ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and record-keeping.
• Proficiency in ten-key data entry.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES AND INTERACTIONS WITH OTHERS

The Purchasing Clerk has no supervisory responsibilities but will be expected to interact with coworkers, customers, vendors, and the general public.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk, hear, and see using close- and/or distance-vision, and use their hands to touch, grasp, or type. The employee may occasionally be required to reach with their hands and arms, walk, and lift or move objects up to 20 pounds. Hand-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Duties are typically performed in an office environment. The work environment is usually a well-lit environmentally controlled indoor environment with a moderate level of noise. This is a full-time position, and the hours of work and days are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Travel is an essential function of the role. Work hours may vary depending on the operational activities and required duties; evening and weekend work may occasionally be required.