Purchasing Agent jobs in Baltimore, MD

Job Summary

Researches, evaluates and purchases product based on price, service and quality that meet the needs of the organization. Authorizes and processes purchase orders. Review purchase orders for completeness and accuracy. Maintains inventory records and purchasing control parameters. The buyer manages inventory in all branches so that fill rate and inventory turn goals are met or exceeded.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Prepare, process, and expedite purchase orders for assigned product lines.
• Process order acknowledgements and manage back order report.
• Provide purchasing planning and control information by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing data and trends.
• Maintain cooperative working relationships with suppliers to stay current with trends and technologies, products, and services.
• Resolve issues from purchased product with internal and external clients.
• Arrange for returns and replacements when necessary.
• Manage plans for stock levels.
• Perform detailed work related to purchasing with judgment, accuracy, confidentiality, and promptness.
• Consider the following factors when making purchasing decisions: customer demand, price, quality, availability, supplier lead time, market trends, company policy, and financial budgets.
• General knowledge of market demand fluctuations, seasonality, and government regulations.
• Evaluate and minimize surplus inventory levels.
• Regularly review key performance indicators such as inventory turns, out of stocks, overstocks, and fill rates.
• Coordinate with other departments within the organization to ensure projects are completed.
• Keep accurate up to date product pricing files.
• Assist in negotiating contractual agreements with current and potential suppliers.
• Assist with ERP maintenance and reporting.
• Perform product maintenance as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor degree or equivalent years buying experience preferred.
• Familiar with modern purchasing methods, procedures, and specifications.
• Working knowledge of Excel and the ability to work with various business software.
• Ability to work independently and as a team.
• Experience partnering with vendors and suppliers.
• Problem Solver; able to resolve discrepancies independently.