Purchasing Assistant

PACE Supply is a leading provider of plumbing and water treatment solutions, committed to delivering excellence in products and services. With a focus on quality and innovation, PACE Supply serves as a trusted partner in the construction and plumbing industry. The Purchasing Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting Buyers within the Purchasing Department by offering technical and administrative assistance in the procurement process. The primary focus is on facilitating efficient purchasing operations and ensuring the procurement of necessary supplies and equipment essential for business activities. This position involves strategic procurement, vendor negotiation, and effective communication to ensure seamless order placements.

If you are detail-oriented, possess excellent negotiation skills, and thrive in a dynamic environment, we invite you to join our team.

• →Collaborate with Buyers to manage inventory replenishment for various branches and product categories.
• →Assist in planning, organizing, and directing activities related to managed spend categories.
• →Work alongside Buyers to manage system settings governing buy quantities, aligning with company goals for inventory management and service levels.
• →Respond promptly to email requests and expedite purchase orders as needed to meet customer requirements.
• →Process purchase orders and transfers to maintain a balance between fill rates and days of inventory.
• →Utilize MIS, Blueridge, and Phocas to increase order processing efficiency.
• →Provide dedicated support to Buyers and Purchasing Manager to ensure smooth purchasing operations.
• →Collaborate closely with individual locations to address purchasing-related inquiries and issues.
• →Assist in preparing instructions for purchasing systems, processes, and procedures.
• →Support in resolving payable discrepancies and provide administrative assistance within the Purchasing Department.
• →Support Buyers in maintaining optimal relationships with suppliers, ensuring they meet financial, quality, and timing objectives.
• →Assist in preparing budgets, negotiating contracts, and monitoring supplier activities.
• →Aid in handling disputes with suppliers and coordinating their resolution.
• →Assist in conducting performance evaluations and audits.
• →Identify cost-saving opportunities related to freight options.
• →Assist in managing file maintenance for purchased products, including pricing updates.
• →Maintain a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating cooperatively with customers, co-workers, and managers.

• High school diploma (or equivalent), Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, related field, or equivalent experience preferred. A combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance of the job would qualify.
• At least 1 year's experience in a purchasing administration role or prior industry and product knowledge.
• Experienced with inventory management.
• Accounting and inventory reconciliation experience.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Existing relationships with industry-related vendors.
• A complete understanding of the industry and products.
• Professional License CPP, or CPPM, or Certification in Purchasing.
• Ability to prioritize multiple functions and tasks, and manage time efficiently, with the ability to interact comfortably with vendors, sales, customers, and other departments.
• Self-directed and meticulous analytical person.
• Computer proficiency and technical aptitude with the ability to use Microsoft products, including Excel.
• Excellent time management skills and ability to plan and set priorities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

As part of our commitment to providing a safe and secure work environment for our team members and customers, successful candidates must complete the following pre-employment requirements:

PACE Supply is proud to be an employee-owned corporation. We offer competitive wages, career pathways of growth, and excellent benefits packages that includes medical, dental, and vision care that is available to you within the first 30 days! We also provide our employees with life insurance, sick days, holidays, vacation, two retirement programs of 401(k) and ESOP, and much more.