Procurement Manager

Solar Energy Solutions; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

ESOP

Company 401K

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Paid Vacation

Paid Holidays

Job summary

Solar Energy Solutions is looking for a Procurement Manager based in Lexington, Kentucky. This role involves overseeing all procurement processes for solar projects, managing supplier relationships, inventory systems, and ensuring cost-effective purchasing of materials necessary for residential and commercial solar installations.

The ideal candidate will have experience in procurement or supply chain management, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Benefits include competitive pay, company 401K, medical insurance, and paid holidays.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in procurement or purchasing.
• Strong vendor negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end procurement process for solar project materials.
• Negotiate pricing and contract terms with suppliers.
• Maintain inventory software for accuracy.
• Monitor supplier performance and product quality.
• Collaborate with finance for accurate purchasing records.

Skills

Vendor negotiation

Relationship management

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Microsoft Excel proficiency

Education

Experience in procurement or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Inventory management systems

Job description

Solar Energy Solutions is seeking a Procurement Manager to lead purchasing, supplier management, inventory and material coordination for residential, commercial, and small utility‑scale solar projects. This role is responsible for ensuring the timely, cost‑effective procurement of solar modules, inverters, racking, electrical components, batteries, tools, equipment, and other project materials while supporting project schedules, quality standards, and company goals.

The Procurement Manager will work closely with operations, warehouse, project management, sales, engineering, finance, and field teams to forecast material needs, manage inventory systems, manage vendor relationships, control costs, and improve procurement processes in a fast‑paced renewable energy environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the end‑to‑end procurement process for solar project materials, equipment, tools, and supplies
• Maintain inventory software to ensure accuracy
• Develop, evaluate, and maintain relationships with vendors, distributors, manufacturers, and subcontractor partners
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, payment terms, delivery schedules, and contract terms to support cost savings and supply reliability
• Coordinate with project managers, warehouse staff, engineering, and field operations to ensure materials are available when needed for scheduled installations
• Create, review, and manage purchase orders, order confirmations, invoices, delivery schedules, and procurement documentation
• Monitor inventory levels and forecast recurring material requirements, long‑lead items, and project‑specific components
• Track supplier performance, delivery accuracy, product quality, warranty support, and responsiveness
• Identify procurement risks, including supply shortages, price changes, shipping delays, and product availability issues, and recommend mitigation plans
• Support budgeting and cost control by analyzing material costs, vendor quotes, and purchasing trends
• Collaborate with finance to resolve invoice discrepancies, maintain accurate purchasing records, and support month‑end reporting
• Stay informed on solar technology, equipment standards, code requirements, and market trends that may affect purchasing decisions
• Continuously improve procurement workflows, vendor management practices, and internal communication processes

Required Qualifications

• Proven experience in procurement, purchasing, supply chain, inventory management, construction operations, or a related field
• Strong vendor negotiation, relationship management, and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and project material needs in a fast‑paced environment
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in purchase orders, pricing, delivery information, and documentation
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools, especially Excel, Outlook, and Teams
• Ability to collaborate effectively with office, warehouse, and field teams
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel locally as needed for vendor, warehouse, or project‑related needs

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in solar, renewable energy, electrical construction, general construction, manufacturing, or distribution
• Knowledge of solar modules, inverters, racking systems, batteries, EV chargers, electrical balance‑of‑system materials, and construction tools
• Experience with inventory, ERP, accounting, or project management systems
• Familiarity with vendor contracts, warranties, shipping logistics, and material staging for construction projects
• Experience supporting multi‑site operations or project‑based purchasing

Work Environment

This is an in‑office position based in Lexington, Kentucky. The role may require occasional visits to the warehouse, supplier locations, or project sites. The Procurement Manager should be comfortable working in both office and operational environments and communicating with employees across departments.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use a computer for extended periods
• Ability to visit warehouse or jobsite environments as needed
• Ability to occasionally lift or move materials up to 25 pounds, with assistance when required

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• ESOP
• Company 401K
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Vacation
• Paid Holidays

Equal Employment Opportunity

Solar Energy Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and considering all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.