Purchasing Agent

Description

The Purchasing Agent is a key member of the Supply Chain team, responsible for sourcing and procuring electrical‑related materials that support Mission Critical, Electrical, and Energy projects. They evaluate competitive vendor pricing and service, negotiate contracts, and manage purchase orders to ensure each project receives the right materials on time and at the best value.

The role works closely with project teams, vendors, and internal stakeholders to track back orders, manage submittals, and maintain compliance with contract and company standards. Balancing cost, quality, and schedule while keeping accurate records and strong vendor relationships directly impacts project profitability and success.

The Purchasing Agent will ethically procure material and equipment for all projects and shop operations in a value‑conscious, timely, and organized fashion, ensuring contract compliance and supporting project teams with submittals and compliance packages.

• Procure multiple vendor quotes, aiming for three bids per requisition to secure best price, delivery, and value.
• Use spreadsheets for analysis to make optimal purchasing decisions.
• Ensure contract compliance for all materials and equipment.
• Support project teams with submittals and contract compliance packages.
• Meet timelines to reduce non‑productive field product shortages.
• Accurately enter purchase orders into Viewpoint, including line‑item identification and pricing.
• Liaise with Accounts Payable to correct purchase order errors.
• Verify purchase orders to capture vendor discounts.
• Negotiate product returns after project completion to minimize inventory and maximize profitability.
• Coordinate with the Yard Manager to reduce overall company inventory.
• Negotiate site storage, product releases, and material‑handling improvements.
• Track and apply credits to vendor accounts.
• Manage back orders to ensure timely delivery of material and equipment.
• Purchase equipment and rough‑in materials for projects.
• Submit submittals to meet project deadlines.
• Purchase raw materials required for fabrication.
• Maintain a thorough understanding of purchasing processes and buying agreements.
• Contact vendors to expedite purchase order items and verify price changes.
• Update vendor information files.
• Assist Accounts Payable with PO‑to‑invoice matching and issue resolution.
• Maintain the goal of zero long‑term inventory.

Requirements

Purchasing Agents are valued for their attention to detail, strong negotiation skills, and commitment to operational excellence, keeping supply chains efficient and projects moving forward. Their contributions are essential for delivering high‑performance electrical and energy solutions.

• College or university degree with 3‑5 years relevant experience, or equivalent combination of skills.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, formulas) is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving skills with strong attention to detail.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills; present data clearly and actionably.
• Ability to make independent decisions on complex purchasing matters.
• Recognized awards and accreditations across construction, manufacturing, fabrication, and service.

Benefits

RK distinguishes itself through an unmatched safety culture, industry‑recognised awards, competitive benefits, a longstanding philanthropic commitment via the RK Foundation, and extensive development opportunities such as RK University and apprenticeship programs.

• Competitive benefits that support employee growth and well‑being.
• Development opportunities via RK University, accredited apprenticeship program, and leadership training.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance