Apparel Purchasing & Materials Specialist

Mechanix Wear; Skokie (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Chicago Protective Apparel, a Division of Mechanix Wear LLC, seeks a Purchasing Specialist in the Chicagoland area to support the Director of Purchasing by sourcing fabrics, trims, and materials, managing purchase orders, and coordinating with vendors to ensure timely deliveries.

Responsibilities include tracking shipments, updating supplier databases, reconciling invoices, and maintaining accurate records.

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

Excel proficiency

ERP software

Communication

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Vendor communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate or bachelor’s degree preferred (Business, Supply Chain, Fashion Merchandising, or related field)

Tools

IQuest

Job description

Chicago Protective Apparel, a Division of Mechanix Wear LLC, seeks a Purchasing Specialist in the Chicagoland area to support the Director of Purchasing by sourcing fabrics, trims, and materials, managing purchase orders, and coordinating with vendors to ensure timely deliveries.

Responsibilities include tracking shipments, updating supplier databases, reconciling invoices, and maintaining accurate records.