Purchasing Specialist at Allied Plastics – Jacksonville, Florida

About Allied Plastics

Eighty years of manufacturing expertise drives new product development and informs continuous process improvement. Addressing current trends and anticipating future needs, we take pride in introducing new feature-rich designs for STEM, classroom, administration, seating, storage and more.

About the role

• The Buyer / Purchasing Specialist is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing materials, components, equipment, and services in support of production requirements. This role plays a key part in maintaining inventory levels, optimizing cost, and ensuring timely delivery from suppliers while supporting continuous improvement in the supply chain.

What you'll do

• Source and purchase materials according to engineering specifications and production schedules.
• Create and issue Purchase Orders in NetSuite, track deliveries, and manage supplier performance.
• Review and act on MRP recommendations to ensure timely procurement aligned with production needs.
• Monitor material availability and collaborate with Production Control to adjust POs based on changes in demand or lead times.
• Proactively follow up on open POs to ensure on-time deliveries and immediately escalate delays that impact production.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions with suppliers to obtain best value and improve lead times.
• Evaluate and select suppliers based on quality, cost, delivery performance, and service capabilities.
• Resolve issues related to shortages, pricing discrepancies, delivery delays, and supplier performance.
• Support inventory management and cycle count processes; reconcile discrepancies with production.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvement.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Critical materials arrive on time to support uninterrupted production.
• Supplier performance improves through consistent follow-up and accountability.
• Inventory stays balanced — avoiding both shortages and excessive overstock.
• NetSuite purchasing workflow is accurate, organized, and disciplined.

Qualifications

• Proficient with ERP systems; NetSuite experience is a strong plus (especially purchasing, inventory, and vendor modules).
• Experience with international vendors, including tracking overseas shipments / container deliveries.
• Experience working with MRP systems and interpreting MRP output for purchasing decisions.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on accuracy, follow-through, and continuous improvement.

Education & Experience

• High School Diploma / GED required
• 3+ years' experience in procurement / buying in a manufacturing environment (preferred)