Purchasing Agent

The Purchasing Agent is responsible for reading, interpreting and acting upon RFQs (Request for Quotation) and interpreting requirements for procuring advanced manufacturing products, managing purchase orders in SAP, and optimizing stock levels while ensuring supplier performance. They monitor supplier activity, expedite orders, resolve discrepancies, and maintain accurate master data. Additionally, they analyze supplier quotations, recommend sourcing options, and support RFQ activities with Engineering, Program Managers and Product Line Managers, all while enhancing supply chain efficiency.PurchasingResponsible for purchasing assigned advanced manufacturing products. Responsibilities include:Place POs in SAP according to MRP and best business practicesConsider and maintain SAP/ERP settings that will optimize EO profitability while controlling stock levels to budget and meeting service goalsAdministrator of Product/Supplier Information Record (spreadsheet/dashboard) for internal use by all disciplines for “all things” supplier activity (price adjustments, lead times, market sensitivities, supply chain challenges, etc.). Understand and negotiate multi-release and complex delivery date ordersUpdate & manually maintain supplier confirmations of several hundred items simultaneouslyMonitor suppliers and open orders to ensure zero past due purchase orders and minimal customer back ordersKeep open Expedite Tickets (internal EO tool) well documented and up to date Contact suppliers for expedites and past due purchase orders to ensure constant supply of goods Update purchase orders with all relevant information from suppliers - including order confirmations and shipping notificationsFollow up with suppliers and EO sales on unconfirmed purchase ordersContact suppliers with any receiving discrepancies as advised by EOB Receiving Dept. Contact suppliers for RMAs as advised by EOB QA Dept. Keep Master Data accurate in SAP. Master data includes: Planned delivery time, Special Procurement Key, Purchasing Info Records (PIR), Quality Info Records (QIR), Source List, and Vendor Master contact information.As needed, analyze quotations received from suppliers on the source list or those suppliers recommended by other Purchasing Agents and Strategic SourcingRecommend sources of supply based on capabilities of EO’s current vendors and assist in finding new sources when current approved vendor list is lacking the capability or capacitySupport RFQ activity as neededOther FunctionsMake recommendations for policy or procedural changesCreate reports and pivot tables, analyze data as needed to complete tasks at handAssist Supply Chain Leadership as neededAdditional projects as needed Comply with federal, state, and company policies, procedures, and regulationsTo perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Required Skills & Abilities:Purchasing experience in a Tier1 ERP system environment, (SAP Hana preferred)Proficient in cultivating productive relationships with suppliers to obtain the best programs/prices availableOrganizational skills with attention to detail required and ability to manage multiple suppliers and order simultaneouslyAble to recognize market fluctuations and identify appropriate/advantageous buying opportunitiesStrong problem-solving skills within fast paced environment/industryJudgement and decision-making skillsCommunication skills - Ability to effectively communicate via email, phone and in face to face situationsStrong Proficiency in Microsoft Office: Excel, Word, OutlookMath skills - Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations such as profit margins, ROI, net-spend, savings percentage, exchange rates.Autonomous, accountable, and willing to learn and expand their knowledge and influenceU.S. Citizenship or permanent residence requiredEducation/Experience: SAP purchasing or production control experience requiredSAP Hana experience preferred4 -10 years of experience in procurement, production management, inventory management or a related disciplinePhysical Requirements:Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time; operate general office equipment; work in office settingAll qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.Think you meet some of the requirements but not all? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs for which they do not meet every qualification. If you see a role that interests you, we encourage you to apply, regardless of whether or not your experience is completely aligned with the job description. Edmund Optics is committed to becoming the most diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace within the Optics and Photonics Industry and beyond. You may be a great candidate for this role or others within Edmund Optics.Compensation Range Transparency:At Edmund Optics, we are committed to transparency and equity in our hiring practices. The posted salary range for this role reflects the expected base pay. The actual offer will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to relevant skills, education, work experience, business needs, and geographic location.Salary Range:$70,000 - $80,000 per yearBenefits:Medical, Dental, and Vision InsuranceLife, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability InsuranceGenerous Paid Time Off (PTO)Tuition Reimbursement401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match up to 3%Daycare and Gym ReimbursementPaid Parental Leave and New Mother BenefitsTraining and Development OpportunitiesAvailability of these benefits may depend on the country and employment type.

Created: 2026-03-07