Purchasing Agent

American Printing House for the Blind•Louisville, KY

7d•$62,000 - $78,000•Hybrid

About The Position

At the American Printing House for the Blind (APH), we believe access to the right tools and information at the right time can change lives. Every day, we work to break down barriers and empower students, families, adults, and educators—creating a future that belongs to everyone. From braille and large-type books to cutting-edge digital tools, our products and services reach people who are blind or low vision across the U.S. and beyond. If you're passionate about quality, innovation, and impact—you belong here.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Management, Business, Engineering, or another related field.
3+ years’ experience in negotiating with vendors.
Note: A combination of education, training, and experience may be considered when competency in the role is demonstrated.
Experience working with SAP or other ERP systems in a manufacturing environment is required.
Knowledge of and background in MRP, supply chain, production management, and project engineering required.

Nice To Haves

American Purchasing Society, APICS, or ISM Certification preferred.
Knowledge of low vision and blindness

Responsibilities

Manage the full procurement cycle, including vendor research, RFQs/RFPs, quote analysis, contract negotiation, purchase order creation, and supplier selection to achieve optimal cost, quality, and delivery outcomes.
Build and maintain strong vendor relationships, monitor supplier performance, review vendor scorecards, and identify alternative sourcing options when needed.
Coordinate material requirements and delivery schedules, including large and blanket purchase orders, to ensure inventory availability while minimizing cash outlay.
Collaborate with APH departments to identify purchasing needs, support budgeting efforts, resolve procurement issues, and provide sourcing recommendations.
Maintain accurate procurement records and ERP data, including purchase orders, contracts, vendor files, part histories, transactions, receipts, and negotiation documentation.
Resolve vendor-related issues such as late deliveries, shortages, rejected shipments, payment discrepancies, and service contract concerns, while serving as a departmental backup as needed.