Purchasing Agent- Fastening Buyer

**Position Title**: Fastening Buyer **POSITION PURPOSE:** Performs inventory replenishment and planning activities related to product, tooling, and services for the Fastening/Construction Group. Ensures contracts, agreements, and conversations with vendors are in alignment with company objectives. Must represent the Company in a professional manner. Conducts negotiations with suppliers to secure consistent supplies and competitive prices. Will make decisions regarding stocking levels, costs, and participate in decision-making processes to add/remove vendors and products. Will be asked to provide analysis for product and vendor related information. The Fastening Buyer position reports to the Fastening Purchasing Manager. **PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND REQUIREMENTS:** 1. Utilize best practices to maintain lowest cost and optimum inventory levels to minimize carrying costs while meeting customer requirements. Negotiate favorable terms with vendors to reduce acquisition costs (lower item cost, freight terms, freight routing, rebates, returns/exchanges) 2. Utilize demand planning software, analyze purchase history, and work with additional departments to plan for future needs. Evaluate item performance and recommend disposition for under-performing items. Proactively monitors inventory to identify potential ‘surplus’ inventory situations and takes corrective action. 3. Work closely with all personnel to keep abreast of changes in usage, pricing, stock-outs. Responsible for day-to-day inquires related to inventory: ETA dates (orders), expedites, pricing requests, new item additions, etc. Maintains positive and proactive communication with sales and internal departments of the company. 4. Maintain records of orders, quotes, and vendor price information. 5. Understands (Ability to learn) the software application programs for inventory and replenishment and how they relate to other system modules, and ensures the data is accurately maintained. 6. As needed, enters and processes transfers, participates in the return/credit process from our customers and to our vendors, obtains samples, etc. 7. Coordinates work schedule with the Fastening Purchasing Manager to ensure coverage during vacations, personal time, etc. 8. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications: - Strong negotiation, communication, and analytical skills. - 5 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain management - Proficient in Microsoft Office programs (Outlook, Excel, Word, etc.) - Remain calm and professional in stressful situations - Friendly, courteous, service-oriented, and flexible. Enjoy working with a variety of staff. - Self-motivated, detail oriented, and able to work independently and remotely. - Ability to analyze and present data, make recommendations to various team members.