Purchasing Clerk

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Purchaser supports the Purchasing Manager in the procurement of structural steel materials, consumables, and related items for SME Industries’ fabrication facilities and project sites. This role ensures material orders are accurately placed, tracked, and delivered in alignment with project schedules, cost targets, and quality standards. The Purchaser works closely with project management, engineering, and production control to maintain material traceability, optimize supplier performance, and keep procurement activities aligned with company goals.

ABOUT US:

Southwest Steel is a steel fabrication and erection company that specializes in miscellaneous metal, steel stairs, railings, structural steel, and creatively unique custom steel pieces to complete projects from standard building needs to anything imaginable. Visit https://sws-steel.com/ to learn more. Southwest Steel is a division of SME Industries, Inc.

Why Join Us?

- Health and Wellness Benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Short Term Disability and Life Insurance.

- Financial Benefits including competitive compensation and 401(k) plan.

- Additional Benefits including Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off, Employee Assistance Program, and more.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Prepare and issue purchase orders for structural steel shapes.

- Creates and revises pull list and Cutlist for the shop as needed based on project and schedule needs.

- Review material requisitions from Tekla PowerFab and verify accuracy with project drawings and specifications.

- Coordinate with project management teams to confirm required grades, quantities, and delivery timelines.

- Communicate with vendors to confirm order status, delivery schedules, and resolve discrepancies or delays.

- Assist with price comparison, quote analysis, and supplier selection in coordination with the Purchasing Manager.

- Monitor open purchase orders in Tekla PowerFab to ensure timely delivery and receipt documentation.

- Maintain accurate records of purchase orders and material certificates in accordance with QA/QC requirements.

- Track inventory levels in coordination with Production Control and Inventory personnel to prevent shortages or excess.

- Support invoice matching and resolution with accounting by verifying receipt and pricing accuracy.

- Contribute to supplier evaluations by tracking on-time delivery, quality performance, and responsiveness.

- Assist with continuous improvement initiatives for procurement workflows and system integration within PowerFab.

- Perform other duties as assigned by the Purchasing Manager.

QUALIFICATIONS: Must be able to perform each essential duty daily.

- Minimum 2–3 years of experience in purchasing or procurement, preferably within structural steel fabrication, construction, or manufacturing.

- Basic understanding of structural steel materials, grades, and fabrication requirements.

- Proficiency in Tekla PowerFab or other ERP systems preferred.

- Strong skills in Microsoft Excel and Outlook.

- Effective written and verbal communication skills.

- Ability to multitask and manage time efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and follow-up skills.

- Ability to work collaboratively across departments.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while using a computer or reviewing documents.

- Occasional lifting of material samples, records, or equipment (typically up to 20 lbs).

- Periodic visits to fabrication shops and warehouse areas, requiring PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety-toe shoes).

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

- Primarily office-based within a fabrication facility or corporate office setting.

- Frequent communication with suppliers, vendors, and internal departments.

- Regular visits to fabrication and inventory control areas to monitor operations.

- Fast-paced, deadline-driven environment requiring adaptability and coordination across multiple teams.

Position Responsibilities:This job posting reflects the current assignment of essential functions and is not meant to be all-inclusive. Duties and responsibilities may be assigned or reassigned to this position at any time.

Equal Employment Opportunity: SME Industries, Inc. and its divisions (SME Steel Contractors, Southwest Steel, CoreBrace, DuraFuse, and SME Logistics) is an Equal Opportunity (EEO) Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or any other protected group status or non-job-related characteristic as directed by law.

Employment Authorization: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Proof of eligibility will be required upon hire.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- 401(k) matching

- Dental insurance

- Employee assistance program

- Health insurance

- Health savings account

- Vision insurance

Work Location: In person