Category Purchasing Specialist

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc.; Waynesboro (VA); On-site; USD 58,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match up to 15%

Medical insurance

Dental and vision insurance

Life insurance

Paid vacation and holidays

Sick leave and bereavement leave

Jury duty leave

Employee referral bonus

Job summary

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. in Waynesboro, VA is seeking a Category Purchasing Specialist to manage procurement for projects and materials.

You will work with engineering, project management, manufacturing, and construction leadership to ensure timely, cost‑effective materials and equipment delivery. Responsibilities include using Epicor ERP for quotes and orders, building supplier relationships, identifying cost savings, and coordinating with field teams to align deliveries with

Qualifications

• Associate degree in supply chain, business admin or related field is required.
• At least 2 years procurement or supply chain experience preferred.
• Strong negotiation, communication and analytical abilities.
• Familiarity with supplier performance and SRM principles is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage procurement activities using ERP, including quotes, POs, shipments, receiving, and records.
• Build and maintain relationships with national and local suppliers.
• Source materials to meet project needs and identify cost savings.
• Coordinate with project managers, engineers, shop and field teams.
• Handle returns/credits with vendors, invoicing, and on-site users.
• Ensure material deliveries align with project schedules.
• Take on additional duties as assigned by Purchasing Manager.

Skills

Negotiation

Communication

Analytical skills

Data interpretation

Problem-solving

Prioritization

Education

Associate degree in Supply Chain Management or related field

Tools

Epicor ERP

MS Office

Job description

Innovative Refrigeration Systems, Inc. is the leading provider of industrial refrigeration and process cooling solutions, delivering custom engineered systems utilizing natural refrigerants such as ammonia and CO₂. Through a fully integrated approach encompassing engineering, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, nationwide service, and advanced aftermarket solutions, Innovative supports customers across the food and beverage, cold storage, pharmaceutical, industrial manufacturing, and mission‑critical infrastructure markets throughout North America and around the world. Unlike traditional engineering firms, contractors, or equipment suppliers, Innovative performs engineering, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, service, and ongoing customer support entirely in-house. This integrated model provides employees with the opportunity to support projects throughout the complete lifecycle, from concept and design through manufacturing, installation, startup, operation, optimization, modernization, and long‑term system support.

Job Role:

The Category Purchasing Specialist works closely with engineering, project management, manufacturing, and construction leadership to manage procurement processes. This role is critical for maintaining project timelines and supporting field operations with all necessary materials and equipment.

Key Duties

• Utilize the Epicor ERP system to manage procurement activities, including vendor quotations, purchase order creation, shipment tracking, receiving updates, and documentation
• Develop, maintain, and strengthen relationships with national and local suppliers
• Source materials to support project requirements while identifying cost‑savings opportunities.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, shop personnel, and field teams
• Manage returns and credits by working with vendors, invoicing, and shop/field employees
• Act as a liaison across project teams to align material deliveries with project schedules
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by the Purchasing Manager

Requirements

• Associate degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or a related field.
• Minimum of two (2) years of procurement or supply chain experience, preferably in a manufacturing, production, or construction environment. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
• Strong negotiation, communication, and commercial skills.
• Demonstrated analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make informed recommendations.
• Knowledge of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) principles, including supplier performance measurement and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications; Epicor ERP experience is a plus.
• Strong problem‑solving abilities with the capability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to build effective relationships with vendors, project managers, engineers, shop personnel, and field teams.
• Self‑motivated, resourceful, and capable of working independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.

Benefits

In addition to a competitive base salary, we provide a comprehensive and employee‑focused benefits package designed to support your financial security, health, and work‑life balance:

• Generous retirement plan with a dollar‑for‑dollar 401(k) match up to 15%
• 401(k) student loan repayment match up to 15%
• Medical insurance with 75% of employee and family premiums covered by the company
• Dental and vision insurance options
• Optional supplemental insurance coverage
• Short‑term and long‑term disability insurance
• Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) coverage
• Company‑paid life insurance
• Weekly pay
• Competitive paid vacation and holiday time
• Paid sick leave, bereavement leave, and jury duty leave
• Employee referral bonus program
• Opportunities for career advancement, professional development, training, and apprenticeship programs
• Access to employee discounts on cell phone plans, vehicle rentals, and other eligible services