Purchasing Specialist

Tri-City Group; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Tri-City Group in Cedar Rapids, IA is seeking a Purchasing Specialist to handle day-to-day site needs, issue POs, coordinate with Project Management, and source vendors for critical materials.

You will evaluate vendors on price and reliability, maintain pricing histories, negotiate discounts, and ensure accuracy of purchasing documents while supporting a fast-paced construction environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of purchasing experience, preferably in construction.
• Experience with large-scale construction projects.
• Experience in commercial, industrial and mission-critical projects.
• Electrical Construction purchasing experience is required.

Responsibilities

• Issue and approve Purchase Orders (POs) according to company guidelines.
• Coordinate with Project Management to maintain optimal inventory levels.
• Evaluate vendors based on price, reliability, capability, and history.
• Source multiple vendors for critical materials to enhance efficiency.
• Negotiate volume and other cost-saving opportunities with vendors.
• Ensure that purchasing documents are accurate with reasonable terms.
• Communicate availability and delivery issues promptly to Project Management.
• Maintain pricing histories and vendor records for reference.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Negotiation

Vendor management

Attention to detail

Communication

Problem solving

Organizational skills

Education

Associate degree (preferred)

Job description

Tri-City Group is seeking a Purchasing Specialist for an immediate opening in Cedar Rapids, IA. The Purchasing Specialist will day-to-day job site needs.

Job Duties:

• Issue and approve Purchase Orders (POs) according to company guidelines.
• Coordinate with Project Management to maintain optimal inventory levels.
• Evaluate vendors based on price, reliability, capability, and transaction history, with guidance from the Procurement Team.
• Source multiple vendors for critical materials to enhance efficiency and minimize potential delays.
• Negotiate volume, cash transaction discounts, and other cost-saving opportunities with vendors.
• Ensure that all purchasing documents are accurate, complete, and contain reasonable terms and conditions.
• Communicate availability and delivery issues promptly to the Project Management Team.
• Maintain pricing histories and vendor records for reference and strategic purchasing decisions.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Associate degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related field (preferred but not required).
• 5+ years of purchasing experience, preferably in construction.
• Experience with large-scale construction projects.
• Experience in commercial, industrial, and mission-critical projects is required.
• Electrical Construction purchasing experience is required.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
• Ability to problem-solve under deadlines.
• Professional tact and consideration in vendor interactions.
• Initiative and sound judgment in purchasing decisions.

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM (Occasional evenings/weekends as needed). This is a full-time position, and work hours may vary based on business needs.

Candidates must successfully pass a drug screening and reference check before employment. Tri-City Group is an equal-opportunity employer.