PURCHASING & INVENTORY ASSOCIATE
Sidney Lee Welding Supply | Full-Time | Reports to: Purchasing & Inventory Control Agent
Department: Purchasing & Inventory
JOB SUMMARY
The Purchasing & Inventory Associate supports the Purchasing & Inventory Control Agent in managing day-to-day purchasing activities and inventory operations across Sidney Lee Welding Supply’s branch locations. This role is key to the company’s transition from manual to ERP-driven purchasing, handling routine procurement tasks and hands-on inventory management with accuracy and attention to detail.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Purchasing Support
- Process purchase orders for supplies, materials, and parts as directed.
Monitor open purchase orders and follow up with suppliers on delivery, pricing, or quality issues.
- Research vendors and obtain quotes to support cost-effective purchasing decisions.
Maintain accurate purchasing records and documentation in the ERP system.
- Assist in reviewing purchase orders for policy compliance and authorization limits.
Inventory Control
Asset in regular cycle counts and physical inventory audits across branch locations.
- Maintain and update inventory databases for supplies and materials.
Monitor stock levels and flag items approaching minimum thresholds for replenishment.
- Assist in implementing MIN/MAX, EOQ, or other inventory planning methods as directed.
Reconcile inventory discrepancies and communicate findings to the Purchasing & Inventory Control Agent.
Systems & Collaboration
- Support the transition from manual purchasing to ERP-based workflows across all 10 branch locations.
Enter and maintain accurate data in ERP and inventory management systems.
- Coordinate with branch staff, sales, customer service, and logistics to ensure inventory accuracy and timely fulfillment.
Assist in developing and documenting purchasing and inventory procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
REQUIRED SKILLS & ABILITIES
Basic understanding of purchasing and inventory concepts; familiarity with EOQ, MIN/MAX, or similar planning methods a plus.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel; ERP or inventory software experience preferred.
Strong attention to detail and data entry accuracy.
- Good organizational and time management skills with ability to manage multiple priorities.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Professional and courteous when working with vendors, coworkers, and customers.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- High School Diploma or GED required.
Associate’s degree or coursework in business, supply chain, or a related field preferred.
- 1–2 years of experience in purchasing, inventory control, warehousing, or a similar role preferred.
Experience with ERP or inventory management software a plus.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Office environment with periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Must be able to access and navigate warehouse and branch facilities as needed.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds at times.
Occasional bending, kneeling, stooping, walking, and standing.
Job Requires: Reading, Writing, Reasoning, Talking, Keyboarding