Purchasing Agent

Watchfire Signs; Danville (AL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

401k with Employer Match

Vacation

Personal Time

Job summary

Watchfire Signs is seeking a Purchasing Agent to source, negotiate, and purchase goods and services across the organization. You will collaborate with supply chain, finance, and production teams to ensure timely, cost-effective procurement and alignment with company goals.

The role requires strong negotiation, market analysis, and data-driven decision making, with responsibilities spanning supplier selection, contract terms, inventory oversight, and reporting.

Qualifications

• Strong negotiation skills with proven outcomes.
• Ability to analyze market trends and supplier performance.
• Excellent communication with internal stakeholders.
• Experience with procurement software and ERP/MRP systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop procurement strategies aligned with company goals.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing with suppliers.
• Manage supplier relationships and performance reviews.
• Monitor inventory, lead times, and purchase orders.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to meet requirements.
• Prepare reports and communicate key issues to management.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and process improvements.
• Stay informed on market trends and new products.

Skills

Negotiation

Analytical thinking

Communication

Organization

MRP/ERP use

Microsoft Office

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Travel willingness

Market knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Supply Chain/ or Accounting

Tools

MRP/ERP

Microsoft Office

Job description

Purchasing Agent

Summary

The Purchasing Agent will play a vital role in procurement by sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing goods and services for our organization. This role is responsible for ensuring that the procurement activities align with the company's goals and objectives, while also maintaining efficient and cost-effective purchasing procedures. The Purchasing Agent will collaborate with internal stakeholders, such as the supply chain team, finance department, and production teams, to ensure timely and accurate delivery of goods and services. This role requires strong analytical skills, negotiation abilities, and market knowledge to achieve optimal results.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement procurement strategies and plans per, company goals and objectives.
• Identify and evaluate potential suppliers and negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing agreements to ensure favorable terms and conditions.
• Manage and maintain relationships with existing suppliers.
• Conduct market research and analysis to identify trends, market conditions, and opportunities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand their requirements and provide procurement solutions that meet their needs.
• Review MRP/ERP material requirements and generate purchase orders or requisitions as needed.
• Monitor inventory levels, lead times, open purchase orders, and material availability.
• Coordinate with suppliers to confirm pricing, lead times, order quantities, and delivery schedules.
• Analyze demand forecasts and historical usage to identify purchasing requirements.
• Maintain appropriate safety-stock and inventory levels while minimizing excess and obsolete inventory.
• Prepare purchasing, inventory, and supply reports and communicate key issues to management.
• Evaluate supplier performance and conduct regular performance reviews to ensure compliance with contractual agreements.
• Identify cost‑saving opportunities and implement strategies to optimize procurement processes and reduce expenses.
• Stay updated on industry trends, new products, and market conditions to make informed purchasing decisions.
• Maintain accurate records of purchases, contracts, and supplier information.
• Identify potential supply risks and develop contingency plans.
• Ensure a stable supply chain by diversifying suppliers.

Qualifications/Skills:

• Strong negotiation skills with the ability to drive favorable outcomes.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to analyze market trends, pricing, and supplier performance.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Proficient in using procurement software and tools to streamline processes and manage data effectively.
• Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in contracts, pricing, and specifications.
• Problem‑solving skills to address issues and find creative solutions.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.
• Proactive and result‑oriented mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Proven experience as a Buyer or in a similar procurement role, preferably in a senior capacity.
• Strong knowledge of procurement best practices, market trends, and supplier management.
• Proficient in using procurement software and tools.
• Familiarity with legal and regulatory requirements related to procurement.
• Excellent computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Professional certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Professional Purchasing Manager (CPPM) are preferred.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills.
• Ability to travel as required.
• Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations related to procurement.

Education and Licensing

• Bachelor’s degree in Business/Supply Chain/ or Accounting preferred

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Company Paid Life/ADD
• Voluntary Life/ADD
• Dependent Life/ADD
• 401k with Employer Match
• Vacation
• Personal Time

*Watchfire is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs.

*Legal authorization to work in the US required. We will not consider candidates who need sponsorship, now or in the future, to be legally employed in the US. No H1B, OPT, CPT or other “temporary work authorization” candidates will be considered.