Purchasig Agent (Buyer)

EK Machine•Fall River, WI

About The Position

EK is a leading manufacturing organization committed to delivering high-quality solutions to our customers. We pride ourselves on operational excellence, innovation, and strong supplier partnerships. We are seeking a detail-oriented and driven Buyer / Purchasing Agent to join our team and support our growing operations. The Buyer / Purchasing Agent is responsible for selecting and procuring materials, supplies, and equipment that meet cost, quality, and delivery requirements. This role plays a key part in managing supplier relationships, optimizing sourcing strategies, and ensuring a steady flow of materials to support production needs.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from a four-year college or university; or One to two years of related experience/training; or An equivalent combination of education and experience.
Proficiency using computer applications, including Microsoft Office and manufacturing software .
Ability to read and interpret business periodicals, professional journals, technical documents, and governmental regulations.
Strong writing skills for reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
Ability to present information clearly and respond to questions from managers, clients, and customers.
Knowledge of concepts such as probability, statistical inference, geometry, and trigonometry.
Ability to apply fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to real-world scenarios.

Responsibilities

Manage an annual expenditure base of approximately $9 million for materials and services across E.K. Machine’s purchasing programs.
Initiate purchase orders and amendments for parts, services, and special tooling.
Arrange for submission and inspection of sample products as needed.
Secure and analyze supplier quotations.
Negotiate pricing and terms with suppliers to ensure cost, quality, and delivery competitiveness.
Collaborate closely with cross-functional departments to support enterprise-wide sourcing initiatives.
Monitor market prices, trends, engineering developments, and manufacturing improvements.
Interview and evaluate current and prospective suppliers regarding capabilities, logistics, inventory management, and more.
Visit supplier facilities to qualify new sources and assist in resolving production, design, or quality issues.
Execute order release actions and respond to system-generated exception messages.
Manage inventory levels and item availability to meet production schedules.
Respond to termination and cancellation requests from planners.
Release purchase orders for production materials, stock items, and general business needs.
Serve as a key interface with manufacturing, production control, and departmental leaders regarding material status.