Apparel Purchasing & Logistics Specialist

ADP; Skokie (IL); On-site; USD 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Chicago Protective Apparel, a division of Mechanix Wear LLC, seeks a Purchasing Specialist in Skokie, IL to support the director and procurement team with fabric/material sourcing, purchase orders, and vendor coordination.

The role focuses on sourcing fabrics, trims, and materials for apparel production, ensuring on-time deliveries, accurate records, and efficient operation; requires ERP and Excel proficiency and strong communication.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred (Business, Supply Chain, Fashion Merchandising, or related field)
• Two to Four years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain support, preferably in apparel, textiles, or manufacturing
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and purchasing/ERP software (experience with IQuest a plus)
• Strong collaborative and organizational skills with attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to multitask and manage competing deadlines
• Meet the physical requirements of the position, standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods of time.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, issue, expedite, and track purchase orders for fabrics, trims, packaging, and other production materials, making changes as required by the vendor
• Open drop ship purchase orders and send with packing list to suppliers
• Support cost comparisons and assist in negotiating pricing with vendors
• Collect ship dates on all open purchase orders and track shipments in-transit
• Schedule ship dates with suppliers to reduce freight charges
• Contact freight brokers to request quotes and select the most cost-effective option offering the best lead time
• Update supplier materials costs in the IQuest program
• Monitor inventory levels and update missing materials and missing components/finished goods for Production
• Maintain and update supplier databases, price lists, and material specifications
• Reconcile invoices with purchase orders and packing slips; resolve discrepancies
• Maintain accurate records of orders, contracts, and supplier communications
• Complete compliance reports for customers
• Communicate with domestic and overseas suppliers/vendors regarding pricing, lead times, and order status
• Coordinate with design and production teams to confirm material requirements and specifications
• Provide exceptional customer service to assigned customers and vendors
• Inspect damaged fabrics and communicate quality issues to the Director of Purchasing so a Supplier Corrective Action Request (SCAR) can be completed
• Collaborate and assist other departments when necessary

Skills

Organization & time management

Vendor/supplier communication

Data entry & record-keeping accuracy

Problem-solving & follow-through

Basic negotiation skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred (Business, Supply Chain, Fashion Merchandising, or related field)

Tools

Microsoft Excel

IQuest

ERP software

Job description

Chicago Protective Apparel, a division of Mechanix Wear LLC, seeks a Purchasing Specialist in Skokie, IL to support the director and procurement team with fabric/material sourcing, purchase orders, and vendor coordination.

The role focuses on sourcing fabrics, trims, and materials for apparel production, ensuring on-time deliveries, accurate records, and efficient operation; requires ERP and Excel proficiency and strong communication.