Purchasing Agent jobs in Bloomington, IN

Position Summary: As a Purchasing Agent, you will be responsible for sourcing, selecting, and purchasing quality products and services for our company. Your role will involve building relationships with suppliers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring timely delivery of goods.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Sourcing Suppliers: Identify potential suppliers and evaluate their products and services to determine suitability for our organization's needs.
• Negotiation: Negotiate contracts, prices, terms, and conditions with suppliers to secure advantageous terms for the company.
• Supplier Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure smooth communication, resolve issues, and address any concerns promptly.
• Cost Management: Analyze market trends, pricing, and competitors to make informed purchasing decisions that optimize costs while maintaining quality standards.
• Order Placement: Place purchase orders accurately and efficiently, ensuring all relevant details are included, such as quantities, specifications, and delivery timelines.
• Inventory Management: Collaborate with inventory management teams to maintain optimal inventory levels, minimize stockouts, and reduce excess inventory.
• Quality Assurance: Monitor and evaluate supplier performance to ensure adherence to quality standards, product specifications, and delivery schedules.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks in the supply chain and develop strategies to mitigate them, such as alternative sourcing options or contingency plans.
• Compliance: Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements related to purchasing activities, including vendor selection and contract negotiations.
• Reporting: Prepare and present reports on purchasing activities, supplier performance, cost savings, and other relevant metrics to management.

Minimum Qualifications:

Proven experience as a buyer or in a similar procurement role. Knowledge of supply chain management principles and practices. Strong negotiation, communication, and analytical skills. Proficiency in procurement software and Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and record-keeping. Familiarity with sourcing strategies, market analysis, and cost optimization techniques.

Physical and Mental Demands:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
• Must be able to access all areas of the facility to determine purchasing needs.
• May require occasional travel.