Purchasing Agent

Purchasing Agent

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for reading, interpreting and acting upon RFQs (Request for Quotation) and interpreting requirements for procuring advanced manufacturing products, managing purchase orders in SAP, and optimizing stock levels while ensuring supplier performance. They monitor supplier activity, expedite orders, resolve discrepancies, and maintain accurate master data. Additionally, they analyze supplier quotations, recommend sourcing options, and support RFQ activities with Engineering, Program Managers and Product Line Managers, all while enhancing supply chain efficiency.

Responsibilities

Purchasing

• Responsible for purchasing assigned advanced manufacturing products. Responsibilities include:
• Place POs in SAP according to MRP and best business practices
• Consider and maintain SAP/ERP settings that will optimize EO profitability while controlling stock levels to budget and meeting service goals
• Administrator of Product/Supplier Information Record (spreadsheet/dashboard) for internal use by all disciplines for "all things" supplier activity (price adjustments, lead times, market sensitivities, supply chain challenges, etc.).
• Understand and negotiate multi-release and complex delivery date orders
• Update & manually maintain supplier confirmations of several hundred items simultaneously
• Monitor suppliers and open orders to ensure zero past due purchase orders and minimal customer back orders
• Keep open Expedite Tickets (internal EO tool) well documented and up to date
• Contact suppliers for expedites and past due purchase orders to ensure constant supply of goods
• Update purchase orders with all relevant information from suppliers including order confirmations and shipping notifications
• Follow up with suppliers and EO sales on unconfirmed purchase orders
• Contact suppliers with any receiving discrepancies as advised by EOB Receiving Dept.
• Contact suppliers for RMAs as advised by EOB QA Dept.
• Keep Master Data accurate in SAP. Master data includes: Planned delivery time, Special Procurement Key, Purchasing Info Records (PIR), Quality Info Records (QIR), Source List, and Vendor Master contact information.
• As needed, analyze quotations received from suppliers on the source list or those suppliers recommended by other Purchasing Agents and Strategic Sourcing
• Recommend sources of supply based on capabilities of EO's current vendors and assist in finding new sources when current approved vendor list is lacking the capability or capacity
• Support RFQ activity as needed

Other Functions

• Make recommendations for policy or procedural changes
• Create reports and pivot tables, analyze data as needed to complete tasks at hand
• Assist Supply Chain Leadership as needed
• Additional projects as needed
• Comply with federal, state, and company policies, procedures, and regulations

Qualifications

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Purchasing experience in a Tier1 ERP system environment, (SAP Hana preferred)
• Proficient in cultivating productive relationships with suppliers to obtain the best programs/prices available
• Organizational skills with attention to detail required and ability to manage multiple suppliers and order simultaneously
• Able to recognize market fluctuations and identify appropriate/advantageous buying opportunities
• Strong problem-solving skills within fast paced environment/industry
• Judgement and decision-making skills
• Communication skills Ability to effectively communicate via email, phone and in face to face situations
• Strong Proficiency in Microsoft Office: Excel, Word, Outlook
• Math skills Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations such as profit margins, ROI, net-spend, savings percentage, exchange rates.
• Autonomous, accountable, and willing to learn and expand their knowledge and influence
• U.S. Citizenship or permanent residence required

Education/Experience:

• SAP purchasing or production control experience required
• SAP Hana experience preferred
• 4 -10 years of experience in procurement, production management, inventory management or a related discipline

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time; operate general office equipment; work in office setting

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Think you meet some of the requirements but not all? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs for which they do not meet every qualification. If you see a role that interests you, we encourage you to apply, regardless of whether or not your experience is completely aligned with the job description. Edmund Optics is committed to becoming the most diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace within the Optics and Photonics Industry and beyond. You may be a great candidate for this role or others within Edmund Optics.

Compensation Range Transparency:

At Edmund Optics, we are committed to transparency and equity in our hiring practices. The posted salary range for this role reflects the expected base pay. The actual offer will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to relevant skills, education, work experience, business needs, and geographic location.

Salary Range: $70,000 - $80,000 per year

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match up to 3%
• Daycare and Gym Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave and New Mother Benefits
• Training and Development Opportunities

Availability of these benefits may depend on the country and employment type.