Purchasing Associate
Pay: $27.00–$29.00 per hour
Position Overview
We are seeking an organized and detail-oriented Purchasing Associate to support daily operations by ensuring the custom production shop has the inventory, supplies, and materials needed to meet customer demand, particularly during peak season.
This role is responsible for monitoring inventory levels, coordinating purchases with vendors, tracking deliveries, and communicating with production leads to ensure materials are available when needed. The ideal candidate is proactive, comfortable working with spreadsheets and email, and skilled at following up to keep orders on schedule.
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor inventory levels of blank products, including mugs, apparel, gift items, and other materials used in custom production.
- Track production supplies and identify items that need to be reordered.
- Prepare, submit, and follow up on purchase orders with vendors.
- Confirm order details, expected delivery dates, and shipment status.
- Receive incoming deliveries and verify quantities and items against purchase orders.
- Identify and communicate shortages, discrepancies, damaged items, or delayed shipments.
- Proactively flag potential inventory issues to help prevent production delays.
- Coordinate with shift leads to understand upcoming order volume and anticipated material requirements.
- Help align purchasing priorities with production schedules and seasonal demand.
- Maintain accurate inventory records, purchase order documentation, and delivery updates.
- Communicate with vendors and internal team members to resolve purchasing and delivery issues.
- Keep purchasing records organized and up to date.
Qualifications
- Previous experience in purchasing, inventory control, supply coordination, or administrative support is preferred.
- Comfortable using spreadsheets, email, and basic computer applications.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to track multiple orders, deadlines, and delivery schedules simultaneously.
- Clear written and verbal communication skills.
- Proactive approach to following up with vendors and resolving outstanding issues.
- Ability to identify potential supply shortages and communicate concerns early.
- Dependable, adaptable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is organized, resourceful, and proactive, with the ability to keep inventory and purchasing activities running smoothly. Someone with experience in purchasing, inventory management, supply coordination, or office administration will be a strong fit. Success in this role requires attention to detail, consistent follow-through, and clear communication to ensure production teams have the materials they need to meet customer deadlines.