Purchasing Agent

Cogent•Omaha, NE

8d•Onsite

About The Position

Central States Group, A Cogent Company, is seeking a detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to support purchasing and inventory management across multiple locations. The role takes ownership of assigned suppliers and product categories, analyzes inventory needs, coordinates purchasing activities, and helps ensure products are available when needed. It involves independent purchasing decisions and the use of analytical skills and judgment to improve inventory availability, control costs, and support operational efficiency.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, inventory management, supply chain, or a related field; equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Experience independently managing purchasing activities and coordinating with suppliers.
Working knowledge of inventory replenishment, supplier lead times, purchasing controls, and inventory turnover.
Experience using ERP or computerized purchasing systems.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including analyzing purchasing and inventory data.
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across departments.
Ability to prioritize competing demands, exercise sound judgment, and maintain accuracy in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Purchasing or inventory management experience in wholesale distribution, industrial supply, or a related industry.
Experience with Epicor Prophet 21 (P21) or a similar distribution ERP system.
Experience identifying cost-saving opportunities and improving purchasing processes.
Associate's or bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Independently manage purchasing and inventory replenishment for assigned suppliers and product categories across multiple locations.
Analyze inventory levels, historical usage, demand trends, and supplier lead times to make purchasing decisions.
Create, review, and manage purchase orders, ensuring accurate pricing, quantities, and delivery expectations.
Monitor open orders, track supplier commitments, and expedite materials when needed.
Maintain appropriate inventory levels while helping minimize excess, obsolete, and slow-moving inventory.
Review and adjust ERP replenishment controls within established guidelines.
Build and maintain working relationships with suppliers and serve as a primary contact for purchasing activities, order updates, and supplier issues.
Monitor supplier performance, including pricing, delivery reliability, lead times, and order accuracy.
Identify opportunities for cost savings, improved purchasing terms, and alternative sourcing.
Resolve purchasing discrepancies and escalate complex issues when appropriate.
Use ERP purchasing and inventory management systems to support purchasing decisions.
Maintain supplier pricing, lead times, purchasing records, and inventory replenishment data.
Analyze purchasing reports and inventory trends to identify improvement opportunities.
Collaborate with sales, warehouse operations, and other departments on product availability and purchasing needs.
Recommend and support process improvements that increase purchasing efficiency and consistency across locations.