Purchasing Agent

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste and recycling industry. Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional waste and recycling solutions to our customers and communities through a commitment to safety, service, the environment and the growth of our people.

When you join Rumpke, you'll be part of a team providing essential services to millions of residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. You will enjoy competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, matching 401(k), life insurance, paid vacation, and more.

This is your opportunity to make a difference for you and your family. Come join our team!

The Purchasing Agent plays a key role in an organization's procurement process. Their primary responsibility is to secure goods or services at the right time, in the right quality, and at the best possible cost. This is achieved through activities such as competitive bidding, negotiation, and cost management. A Purchasing Agent needs strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills to effectively manage vendor relationships and contribute to cost-saving initiatives.

Responsibilities of Position:

• Prepare Requests for Proposals using requirements and specifications obtained from various sources.
• Adhere to strict bid deadlines and key project dates.
• Obtain and analyze quotes to determine the best value.
• Prepare proposal analyses and summaries to assist in the final vendor selection.
• Negotiate pricing with suppliers.
• Draft agreements based on the Request for Proposal Requirements and Vendor's Proposal.
• Communicate with suppliers and ensure clear expectations regarding lead times, quality, warranty, and pricing.
• Develop strong relationships with suppliers.
• Communicate Purchasing Policies and Procedures to others within the organization.
• Provide excellent internal customer service and collaborate with internal end users on various purchasing opportunities.
• Contribute to the Purchasing Department's annual savings goals.
• Maintain a positive work atmosphere by performing and communicating in a manner that promotes good relationships with internal and external customers.
• Assist with onboarding new vendors.
• Prepare cancellation notices per agreements near expiration.
• Tracking price changes and trends and communicating to internal customers.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills & Abilities Needed for Position:

• Exhibit strong computer skills, proficient in Windows applications, Microsoft Excel, Teams, and Outlook.
• Ability to read, interpret, and explain company purchasing procedures.
• Ability to prepare specifications and contracts for a large diversity of items.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with all levels.
• Possess strong and effective presentation skills.
• Must possess a high degree of confidentiality.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work well under pressure and be flexible and cooperative.
• Strong Analytical Mindset with excellent negotiation skills.
• Ability to follow standard purchasing and company policies and procedures.
• Self-motivated and capable of working independently.

Experience & Knowledge Needed for Position:

• Bachelor's degree in business finance or the equivalent of 4-5 years of Business Finance or Materials Management experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Purchasing Agent, Buyer, or equivalent.
• Proven record of accomplishments, specifically in strategic cost reductions and supplier relationship management.
• SAP experience in Materials Management and Purchasing.
• Knowledge of standard purchasing procedures and practices, inventory management, logistics, and operations.

Physical Requirements in a Regular Workday:

• Rarely lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling a max of 20 lbs.
• Rarely working in areas of dust, odors, mist, gases, and other airborne matter.
• Continuously sitting and occasionally standing/walking in an office environment.

Additional Working Conditions/Aspects:

• Ability to travel between offices, as required.
• Legally eligible to work in the United States.
• Valid driver's license (if applicable).
• Must successfully complete pre-employment testing.
• Must be able to read and speak the English language.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature, complexity, and level of work to be performed by employees assigned to this position and is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. It does not prescribe or restrict the work that may be assigned. Furthermore, this does not establish an employment contract and is subject to change at the discretion of the company.

Rumpke Waste and Recycling is committed to equality in all aspects of employment. It is Rumpke's policy to provide equal opportunities to all employees and potential employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.