Purchasing Agent / Buyer

Purchasing Agent / Buyer Requirements & Responsibilities

Position Summary

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for acquiring all necessary materials, equipment, and services for construction projects. The agent’s primary goal is to ensure project teams receive the right supplies on time, within budget, and in compliance with project specifications.

Essential Job Functions

To perform this position successfully, the following responsibilities must be performed satisfactorily. These functions are representative, but not all-inclusive, of what is necessary to succeed in this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential job functions. The following responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Procurement and Purchasing
  • Source, negotiate, and work with the project managers to purchase MEP materials and equipment, such as HVAC units, ductwork, pumps, piping, lighting, and electrical fixtures.
  • Procure services, tools, and supplies required for construction projects.
  • Develop and implement cost-effective procurement strategies.
  • Process purchase orders, requisitions, and vendor quotes accurately and promptly.
  • Resolve any issues or discrepancies with suppliers regarding deliveries, quantities, or product quality.
• Vendor and Supplier Management
  • Research and evaluate suppliers based on price, quality, reliability, and technical support.
  • Manage and nurture strong relationships with suppliers, vendors, and subcontractors.
  • Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms to secure the most advantageous deals.
  • Monitor and evaluate supplier performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations.
• Project Coordination
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and site supervisors to identify project needs and requirements.
  • Create procurement schedules to align material deliveries with project timelines.
  • Track shipments and coordinate delivery logistics to ensure materials arrive on schedule.
  • Work with the project team to review and approve materials based on project specifications.
• Cost and Budget Management
  • Conduct cost analysis and track purchasing expenditures to stay within project budgets.
  • Analyze pricing and market trends for MEP materials to identify potential cost-saving opportunities.
  • Work with the accounting department to reconcile invoices and ensure timely vendor payments.
• Inventory and Documentation
  • Maintain accurate records of purchases, pricing, inventory levels, and supplier information.
  • Oversee the tracking of shipments and inventory, preventing shortages or overstocking.
  • Prepare and submit detailed reports on purchasing activities and cost savings for management.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• A minimum of 2–5 years of experience in a purchasing or procurement role, preferably within the construction industry.
• Proven experience negotiating prices, managing suppliers, and handling inventory.
• A strong understanding of MEP systems, materials, and equipment.
• Excellent time-management, organizational, and documentation skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Experience with procurement, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), and inventory management software (e.g., Viewpoint, Vista, SAP, or Sage) is essential.
• Prior experience with MEP-specific materials and equipment is highly desirable.
• High school diploma or GED is required; an Associate or Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, or a related field is often preferred.
• Professional certifications, such as a Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) or similar, can be an advantage.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person