Position Details

The Purchasing Associate is based in our Sarasota, FL location and works closely with various department personnel, and daily tasks related to the procurement of goods and services.  This role will be responsible for purchase requests from various departments and obtaining price quotes from suppliers.  Additionally, their responsibilities include contacting suppliers to schedule deliveries or to discuss active shipment concerns such as shortages, missed deliveries and delays.  The Purchasing Associate is a critical team player in the overall success of the Company.  This position will report in to the Supply Chain Manager, and the hours are M-F, 8-5, with potential for quarterly bonuses.

We offer competitive wages, bonuses, and a generous benefits package, including:

• 401(k), with an employer match of up to 6%
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• EAP (Employee Assistance) program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Key Responsibilities

• Will work closely with our Inventory Control Specialist and Production Planner in order to ensure the proper raw materials are ordered for production planning purposes and understanding packing supply needs for customer orders
• Monitors inventory levels and identifies purchasing needs
• Contact vendors and prepare purchase orders as requested
• Expedite orders; track orders and ensure timely delivery
• Maintain purchasing data in the Company business system or other shared files, along with new supplier forms and processes
• Gather and track documentation for CoAs of raw materials and other docs as they relate to GMP audit requirements
• Follow-up with suppliers, as needed, to confirm pricing or change orders
• Works closely with warehouse staff to ensure all products have arrived in good condition
• Disperse orders to the various departments
• Negotiates with vendors for good and services; negotiating the best possible price and service guarantee
• Develops new supply sources where vendors are inadequate
• Traces delinquent arrivals from purchase orders
• Follows environmental and safety regulations and acts in compliance with laws
• Complies with safety and corporate guidelines on business ethics

Key Competencies

Skills

Education & Experience

• Associates degree in Business or equivalent professional level of knowledge that includes work experience, alternative education, and/or training certification
• At least 3 years of experience in purchasing/procurement
• Clerical and/or Purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment is required
• Good understanding of supply chain procedures
• Effective computer, internet, and telephone skills
• Experience with any SAP/ERP systems, including JDE is preferred
• A working knowledge of integrated business systems, including MS Excel
• Being able to think ahead to anticipate issues
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Excellent team player who will respond positively across boundaries for the good of the organization

Physical Requirements