Purchasing Agent at Culinary Stainless Fabricators – Baton Rouge, Louisiana

seeking a results-driven Purchasing Agent to manage procurement of stainless steel materials, fabrication components, and operational supplies. This role is responsible for vendor selection, pricing negotiation, purchase order management, and ensuring cost-effective and timely material acquisition to support production schedules.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Procurement

Source and procure stainless steel sheets, tubing, hardware, and shop supplies

Negotiate pricing, payment terms, and delivery schedules

Evaluate vendor performance and maintain approved supplier lists

Purchase Order Management

Issue and manage purchase orders in alignment with production forecasts

Monitor order status and ensure on-time delivery

Resolve discrepancies related to pricing, quantities, or shipments

Cost Control & Budgeting

Analyze pricing trends and identify cost-saving opportunities

Track material expenses against budget

Support margin improvement initiatives

Vendor & Cross-Department Coordination

Collaborate with production and logistics teams to align material planning

Maintain vendor relationships and compliance documentation

Ensure purchasing aligns with inventory control standards
Qualifications

• 3+ years of purchasing or procurement experience

• Experience negotiating pricing and vendor agreements

• Strong understanding of inventory control and supply chain processes

• Proficiency in Excel and purchasing or ERP systems

• Strong analytical and communication skills