Buyer Purchasing jobs in Lake Charles, LA

Our client has an immediate need for a Purchasing Agent at their Lake Charles facility to  provide procurement support in accordance with company and corporate procedures. This position places purchase orders, issues requests for quotes, negotiates for lower prices with reputable suppliers, and fulfills all other duties required for the everyday operation of the Procurement department. Other duties include establishing outline agreements and one-time contracts with suppliers and contractors, assisting customers with issues pertaining to material and service sourcing, assisting Maintenance department as turnaround support, expediting purchase orders, and meeting with supplier/contractor personnel on a weekly basis.

Additional Job Responsibilities:

• Intermediate technical knowledge of various commodities, including knowledge of supply sources for commodities
• Thorough understanding of purchasing policies and procedures
• Ability to issue bids, make moderately complex evaluations, draft blanket orders and one-time purchase orders, and administer service agreements
• Negotiation skills to purchase assigned commodities at a favorable price consistent with required quantity, quality, and delivery
• Understanding of purchasing documents and their purpose; knowledge of insurance and indemnification requirements
• Understanding of contract terms and conditions
• Ability to conduct meetings with suppliers to gain insight into current market conditions and product knowledge
• Possess excellent customer service skills and record-keeping skills
• Ability to handle special projects
• Ability to work under general supervision and to follow established procedures
• Ability to maintain honesty, integrity, confidentiality, and a professional demeanor
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Ability to be on call after hours and weekends

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Accounting, Engineering, or related field, plus (2) years of experience in supply chain management, OR
• 6 years of job-related experience (in lieu of degree)
• CPM (Certified Purchasing Manager) or CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Chain Management) certification preferred
• Experience with SAP Materials Management and GEP preferred
• Good analytical skills
• Strong communication skills
• Working knowledge of Microsoft computer software
• Valid driver’s license
• Must be a US Citizen or legally authorized to work without requiring sponsorship