Purchasing Agent

Special Mine Services, Inc.

West Frankfort (IL)

On-site

USD 60,000 - 70,000

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

ESOP Retirement

Paid time off and holidays

Job summary

A leading manufacturing company located in West Frankfort, IL, is seeking a Purchasing Agent to manage procurement for raw materials and components. The role demands strong negotiation skills and attention to detail to ensure project success. Ideal candidates will have 7–10 years of experience in purchasing within a manufacturing environment. The company offers a competitive compensation package including a salary of $60,000 – $70,000, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and an ESOP retirement plan.

Qualifications

7–10 years of experience in purchasing or supply chain within a manufacturing environment.
Strong knowledge of ERP systems and inventory control.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a strong sense of urgency.

Responsibilities

Manage company-wide procurement for materials and services.
Negotiate terms and conditions with suppliers.
Source and qualify new suppliers.
Collaborate with teams to plan materials based on demand.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Communication

Attention to detail

Analytical abilities

ERP systems knowledge

Job description

Special Mine Services, Inc. (SMS) is a U.S.-based diverse business model across four locations that is 100% Employee Owned (ESOP). The Mining Sales & Service Sector is well established with customers in the tri-state region. The FWM sector is well established with our current customer base and holds significant potential for expansion. The manufacture of industrial electrical connectors (brand name SMS Connectors) is established as well, with continued development into global markets, and across several industries, providing limitless possibilities for expansion.

Role Description

The Purchasing Agent is a key member of our Supply Chain team, responsible for sourcing and procuring materials that support our Manufacturing of Electrical Connectors and FWM sectors, evaluating competitive vendor pricing and service to negotiating contracts and managing purchase orders. This role ensures that every project has the right materials, delivered on time and at the best value.

You’ll work closely with project teams and vendors to track back-orders, manage submittals, and maintain compliance with contract and company standards. Your ability to balance cost, quality, and schedule while maintaining accurate records and vendor relationships directly impacts project profitability and success.

Purchasing Agents are valued for their attention to detail, strong negotiation skills, and commitment to operational excellence. Their work keeps supply chains efficient and projects moving forward, making them an essential part of delivering high-performance electrical and energy solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Manage company-wide procurement for raw materials, components, equipment, and services.
Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules to support cost reduction and production goals.
Source and qualify new suppliers to ensure competitive pricing, quality and reliability.
Prepare, issue, amend, and close purchase orders; review requisitions, quotes, and bid packages.
Monitor supplier performance, conduct supplier business reviews, and maintain key vendor relationships.
Collaborate with production teams to plan materials based on inventory levels, customer demand, and sales forecasts.
Maintain accurate ERP data related to purchasing, inventory levels, and lead times.
Ensure compliance with internal procedures.
Drive continuous improvement in purchasing processes and supply chain efficiency.
Learning production scheduling principles and materials requirements planning (ERP).

Qualifications

7–10 years of experience in purchasing, supply chain, or procurement within a manufacturing environment.
Strong knowledge of ERP systems, purchasing best practices, and inventory control.
Excellent negotiation, communication (written and verbal), and relationship-building skills.
Highly organized with strong analytical abilities and attention to detail.
Ability to partner effectively with sales, production, engineering, shipping/receiving, and finance.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a strong sense of urgency.

Special Mine Services offers a highly competitive compensation package including: