Strategic Purchasing & Inventory Specialist

SouthernCarlson; Stockton, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Collaborative family culture

Career growth opportunities

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Job summary

SouthernCarlson is seeking a Purchasing Specialist in Stockton, CA to manage purchasing and inventory for assigned brands and divisions. You will execute purchase activities, monitor lead times, and coordinate with distribution centers and stores to ensure accurate deliveries.

Ideal candidates have an associate degree or equivalent, 5+ years in distribution purchasing, strong math/analytical skills, excellent organization, and advanced Microsoft Office proficiency, especially Excel.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or equivalent education/experience.
• 5+ years of related purchasing experience in a distribution environment.
• Strong mathematical and analytical abilities.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize effectively.
• Clear verbal and written communication skills; relationship-building ability.
• Ability to work with suppliers and cross-functional teams.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office, especially Excel; comfortable with basic tech/tools.
• Knowledge of purchasing processes and Excel proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Research and issue general merchandise purchase orders for assigned brands and divisions while ensuring best cost efficiencies.
• Track and maintain purchase orders by confirming lead times, delivery dates, and current cost.
• Prepare and review purchase requisitions.
• Review order replenishment reports and replenish inventory.
• Monitor inventory levels and stocking levels; update accordingly.
• Coordinate real-time product delivery status with distribution centers and stores.
• Prepare and maintain purchasing reports (spend analysis, stock status, vendor metrics).
• Work with key suppliers to support a strong supply chain and resolve delivery/quality issues.
• Assist merchandising team with promotions, stocking requests, price sheets, and vendor communications.
• Investigate inventory discrepancies and variances.
• Adhere to purchasing processes and procedures.
• Handle month-end activities related to inventory and purchasing.
• Support department and stakeholders with purchasing/inventory initiatives.
• Participate in special projects and other duties as assigned.

Skills

Mathematical skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Multitasking

Communication (verbal/written)

Relationship-building

Technology literacy

Microsoft Office

Excel skills

Education

Associate degree or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

SouthernCarlson is seeking a Purchasing Specialist in Stockton, CA to manage purchasing and inventory for assigned brands and divisions. You will execute purchase activities, monitor lead times, and coordinate with distribution centers and stores to ensure accurate deliveries.

Ideal candidates have an associate degree or equivalent, 5+ years in distribution purchasing, strong math/analytical skills, excellent organization, and advanced Microsoft Office proficiency, especially Excel.