Purchasing Assistant

Job Title: Purchasing Assistant

Department: Operations / Purchasing Reports To: Purchasing Manager / Operations Manager Location: Spokane Valley WA Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

The Purchasing Assistant supports the purchasing and supply chain operations for a stainless-steel tank manufacturing facility by ensuring the timely and cost-effective acquisition of raw materials—particularly stainless-steel coil/sheet, fittings, valves, and fabrication components. This role involves placing purchase orders, tracking deliveries, maintaining accurate records, and resolving supplier issues, all while building and sustaining strong supplier relationships. Reporting directly to the Purchasing Manager, the ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, production-driven environment. If you thrive in dynamic settings and are eager to grow your skills, we welcome motivated individuals to join our team. Thank you for considering this opportunity. We look forward to the possibility of collaborating with you

Key Responsibilities

Procurement Support

- Assist in sourcing and purchasing stainless steel materials, hardware, and manufacturing supplies according to production requirements.

- Obtain quotes, compare pricing, evaluate supplier options, and prepare purchase recommendations.

- Issue purchase orders (POs) and ensure accuracy of item descriptions, quantities, pricing, and expected delivery dates.

- Support the Purchasing Manager in negotiating pricing, lead times, and contract terms with suppliers.

Supplier Coordination

- Communicate regularly with vendors regarding order confirmations, shipping schedules, delays, and product availability.

- Track and follow up on outstanding orders to ensure timely delivery.

- Help maintain positive relationships with suppliers through professional communication and proactive issue resolution.

Inventory & Logistics

- Coordinate with warehouse and production teams to verify material needs and ensure adequate inventory levels.

- Assist with incoming materials inspection by verifying PO details, packing slips, and certifications (e.g., material test reports for stainless steel).

- Address discrepancies in deliveries, including shortages, damages, and incorrect items.

Administrative & Data Management

- Maintain accurate purchasing records, supplier databases, and price lists.

- Update ERP/MRP systems with purchase orders, lead times, and material specifications.

- Generate purchasing reports, cost analysis summaries, and documentation for audits or production planning.

- Support continuous improvement initiatives in procurement processes.

Qualifications

Required

- High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree or relevant certification preferred.

- 1–3 years of purchasing or administrative experience (manufacturing environment preferred).

- Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).

- Experience using ERP/MRP software (e.g., SAP, NetSuite, Epicor, Sage, Job Boss, M1) is an asset.

- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Preferred

- Knowledge of metals (especially stainless-steel grades and specifications) and industrial components.

- Familiarity with manufacturing processes such as welding, fabrication, machining, or tank assembly.

- Basic understanding of supply chain and inventory management principles.

Key Competencies

- Attention to detail and accuracy

- Problem-solving and critical thinking

- Team collaboration

- Negotiation awareness

- Ability to work under deadlines

- Professional communication

Work Environment

- Office environment within a manufacturing facility.

- Occasional time is spent in the shop/warehouse to verify materials or assist with receiving.

Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- 401(k) matching

- Dental insurance

- Health insurance

- Life insurance

- Paid time off

- Vision insurance

Experience:

- procurement: 2 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person