Purchasing Agent (1819)

Purchasing Agent

Job Summary

BLUSA Defense Manufacturing is seeking a detail-oriented and results-driven Purchasing Agent to support the procurement of materials, components, and services for our defense manufacturing operations. This position is responsible for sourcing suppliers, negotiating pricing and delivery terms, issuing purchase orders, and ensuring materials are delivered on time while meeting quality and contractual requirements. The ideal candidate has strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, and works effectively with both internal stakeholders and external suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Source, negotiate, and procure materials, components, and services supporting microelectronics, power products, optics, major assemblies, and build-to-print manufacturing requirements.
• Prepare, issue, and manage purchase orders while ensuring all contractual, quality, and technical requirements are accurately communicated to suppliers.
• Solicit and evaluate supplier quotations, perform bid and proposal activities, and support competitive sourcing initiatives.
• Conduct price and cost analyses to establish pricing objectives and ensure cost-effective purchasing decisions.
• Lead supplier negotiations involving pricing, delivery schedules, terms and conditions, and contractual flow-down requirements.
• Perform supplier evaluations and source selections using best value, total cost of ownership, and other established procurement methodologies.
• Monitor supplier performance to ensure compliance with cost, quality, and delivery expectations.
• Coordinate with engineering, production, quality, planning, and program management teams to ensure purchased materials meet technical specifications and project schedules.
• Review engineering drawings, specifications, and related documentation to ensure procurement accuracy.
• Identify supplier risks and proactively develop mitigation strategies to minimize supply chain disruptions.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records and documentation within the company's ERP system.
• Utilize Microsoft Office applications, particularly Outlook and Excel, for reporting, communication, and procurement analysis.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance procurement efficiency, supplier performance, and cost savings.
• Perform other purchasing and procurement-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Purchasing, Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
• Professional purchasing certifications (such as CPSM or CPIM) are a plus.

Required Experience

• Minimum of 3–5 years of purchasing or procurement experience within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience sourcing and procuring mechanical, electrical, electronic, or fabricated components.
• Experience conducting supplier negotiations, cost analysis, and competitive sourcing activities.
• Experience managing supplier performance related to quality, cost, and delivery.
• Experience supporting defense, aerospace, military, or contract manufacturing environments is preferred.
• Experience with machine shops, metal fabrication, or build-to-print manufacturing is a plus.
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems is preferred.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of purchasing principles, supplier management, and procurement best practices.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Excellent negotiation skills with the ability to achieve favorable pricing, delivery, and contractual outcomes.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to perform price analyses, cost evaluations, and supplier assessments.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build effective relationships with suppliers and internal departments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Outlook and Excel.
• Strong computer skills and experience working within ERP/MRP systems.
• Ability to identify problems, analyze data, and implement effective procurement solutions.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.
• High level of professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
• Mechanical and/or electrical manufacturing knowledge is a plus.
• Commitment to continuous improvement, ethical purchasing practices, and maintaining confidentiality.