Purchasing Agent

Placements24; Redmond (WA); Hybrid; USD 22,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement annuity

Professional development

Generous annual leave

Employee assistance programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Purchasing Agent for construction projects in Welkom, Free State. You will source and negotiate with suppliers, issue purchase orders, and manage procurement to meet budget and schedule.

The role requires a degree in SCM or related field, 3–5 years in construction procurement, and proficiency with ERP systems. You will collaborate with project teams to optimize material flow and supplier performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in SCM, Business Admin, Engineering, or related field.
• 3–5 years of purchasing/procurement experience in construction or infrastructure.
• Proven negotiation with suppliers for materials and services.
• Knowledge of construction materials, equipment, and procurement processes.
• Experience with ERP and procurement software.
• Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment.

Responsibilities

• Source, negotiate, and purchase construction materials, equipment, and services per project specs and budgets.
• Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and reliable delivery.
• Prepare and issue purchase orders, contracts, and other procurement documents.
• Monitor market conditions and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Ensure all purchases comply with policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Track orders and manage delivery schedules to align with project timelines.
• Collaborate with project managers and site supervisors to understand material needs.
• Evaluate supplier performance and provide recommendations for improvement.

Skills

Negotiation

Vendor management

Analytical skills

Communication

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

ERP software

Procurement software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable construction and infrastructure development firm, is seeking a skilled Purchasing Agent to manage the acquisition of materials and services for their projects in Welkom, Free State. This role is critical in ensuring that all project requirements for materials, equipment, and subcontractors are met on time and within budget. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the construction supply chain, excellent negotiation skills, and the ability to manage multiple demands simultaneously. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to the successful delivery of vital infrastructure projects in the Free State region. You will be responsible for sourcing reliable suppliers, negotiating favorable terms, and ensuring the quality and timely delivery of all procured items, thereby playing a crucial role in project timelines and profitability.

Key Responsibilities

• Source, negotiate, and purchase construction materials, equipment, and services according to project specifications and budgets.
• Develop and maintain relationships with suppliers, ensuring competitive pricing and reliable delivery schedules.
• Prepare and issue purchase orders, contracts, and other procurement documents.
• Monitor market conditions and identify potential cost-saving opportunities.
• Ensure all purchases comply with company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Track orders and manage delivery schedules to align with project timelines.
• Resolve any issues related to supplier performance, material quality, or delivery delays.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records and assist in financial reconciliation.
• Collaborate with project managers and site supervisors to understand their material needs.
• Evaluate supplier performance and provide recommendations for improvement or selection.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in purchasing or procurement, specifically within the construction or infrastructure industry.
• Proven experience in negotiating with suppliers for materials and services.
• Strong understanding of construction materials, equipment, and project procurement processes.
• Proficiency in using procurement software and ERP systems.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of local suppliers and the Welkom, Free State construction market is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, balancing remote tasks with on-site project coordination.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance bonuses, comprehensive health insurance, and a retirement annuity.
• Employees benefit from opportunities for professional development, including training programs and potential for career advancement within the company.
• This role provides the chance to be involved in significant infrastructure projects and gain extensive experience in construction procurement.
• Additional benefits include generous annual leave and access to employee assistance programs promoting well-being.