Purchasing Agent
Reading Plastic & Metal Advanced Machining has been a leader in the custom machining industry for decades, focusing on producing high-performance, close-tolerance parts from advanced engineering plastics and metals. Our commitment is to quality in all aspects of our business: customer relationships, expert staff, engineering skill, and methods. We are an ISO 9001:2015 certified company, trusted by demanding industries including military, aerospace, medical, and telecommunications for parts where failure is not an option.
Job Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Purchasing Agent to manage the procurement of raw materials, components, and supplies necessary for our manufacturing operations. This role is essential for ensuring that components and supplies meet our rigorous quality standards, arrive on time, and are procured at the best possible price. The ideal candidate will be a strong negotiator, an excellent problem-solver, and a key collaborator with our production and quality assurance teams.
Key Responsibilities
• Procurement & Sourcing: Research, evaluate, and select suppliers based on price, quality, selection, service, support, and reliability.
• Negotiation & Contracts: Negotiate contracts and pricing with vendors to obtain the best value for the company, analyzing price proposals and market data to determine reasonable prices.
• Order Management: Prepare, process, and track purchase orders (POs) and ensure timely delivery of all materials. Expedite orders and resolve any shipping errors or discrepancies with suppliers.
• Inventory Control: Monitor inventory levels of products and raw materials to ensure optimal stock levels are maintained to meet production demands.
• Vendor Relations: Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with new and existing vendors, coordinating closely with the Quality Assurance group on supplier performance and compliance.
• Collaboration: Work with cross-functional teams, including production, and accounting, to determine supply needs, resolve invoice issues, and ensure seamless operations.
• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain meticulous records of all transactions, purchase orders, receipts, certificates of conformance, and material certifications, and provide reports to management as needed.
Required Skills & Qualifications
• Proven experience as a Purchasing Agent or in a relevant procurement role, preferably within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Strong analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to negotiate effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, and experience with an ERP/MRP system.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a high-paced environment.
• Knowledge of supply chain management principles and quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001).
• High school diploma or equivalent; an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or a related field is a plus.
Benefits
• Competitive compensation
• Health, dental, and vision Insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
Plastics Manufacturing
Purchasing and Supply Chain
Full-time