Purchasing/Inventory Agent

Position Purpose 

The Purchasing Inventory Agent is responsible for supporting procurement and inventory operations by reviewing requisitions, processing purchase orders, coordinating vendor communications, and managing inventory and equipment-related activities. This role ensures timely acquisition of materials, accurate inventory control, efficient repair coordination, and cost-effective purchasing decisions to support organizational operations. 

Distinguishing Characteristics 

Inspire Development Centers provides early Childhood Education (ECE) and social services to 3,110 children in center-based and home-based setting, at more than 25 Child Development Centers (CDC) throughout the State of Washington.  At these sites, Inspire employs over 1,000 staff on a $52 million annual budget.  Inspire provides these services under various federal and state funded programs with differing regulations and stipulations, which must be coordinated and adhered to, including, but not limited to: Regional Head Start (RHS), Migrant Seasonal Head Start (MSHS), Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP), and Early Head Start (EHS).  The organization is required to meet an annual quota of non-federal share (in-kind) funds.  A large majority of children’s first language is Spanish.  Over the past 40 years, Inspire has strategically and incrementally increased its capacity to address the rapidly changing needs of its families and communities. 

Supervisory and Other Relationships 

Purchasing / Inventory Agent reports to the Purchasing Inventory Manager and works closely with other IDC personnel and the general public. 

Examples of Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

The following examples of duties and accountabilities illustrate the general range of tasks assigned to the position but are not intended to define the limits of required duties.  Other essential duties may be assigned consistent with the general scope of the position. 

1. Review purchase requisitions for completeness, accuracy, budget coding, and proper allocation. Generate and process purchase orders in accordance with company policies and procedures. Ensure appropriate support documentation is attached.   

1. Place orders with approved vendors and suppliers. Obtain quotes, bids, and pricing information as needed. Compare products, pricing, warranties, and delivery timelines to identify best-value purchasing options. Maintain positive working relationships with vendors and service providers. Track orders and manage order logistics to ensure timely delivery and issue resolution. Follow up on delayed shipments, backorders, and discrepancies. Coordinated employee business travel and company events by arranging flights, accommodations, booking venues, and ground transportation while ensuring schedules and company travel policies were followed.  

1. Conduct routine equipment and inventory audits to ensure inventory accuracy and accountability. Maintain inventory records and update inventory management systems. Assign Equipment Property Tags to new equipment.  Add new equipment to Asset Tracking System. Assist in identifying obsolete, damaged, or surplus inventory items.  

1. Manage incoming facility and equipment repair tickets. Evaluate repair requests and conduct repair-versus-replacement analysis. Provide recommendations regarding equipment maintenance, repair, or replacement. Coordinate service calls with vendors, technicians, and internal departments. Track repair status and ensure timely completion of work orders.  

1. Provide ongoing technical support and training to internal buyers. Follow-up on outstanding Purchase Orders per P.O. Status Report. 

1. Maintain vehicle registration files to ensure that all vehicle licensing is current. 

1. Assist the Purchasing/Inventory Manager with maintenance of the leasehold, land, building, and project(s) file.  Coordinate the repair of special equipment. 

1. Show interest in furthering professional growth by attending staff meetings, workshops, trainings, and seminars. 

1. Maintain confidentiality of program and client related information at all times. 

1. Perform all other duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications 

Incumbents are required to have demonstrated knowledge and abilities in these areas: 

• High School Diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate, plus additional training in specialized or technical field; 

• Experience working in a federally funded and regulated environment; 

• Experience in policy and procedure development; 

• Experience in strategic planning and facilitating planning groups; 

• Experience in risk management; 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; 

• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills; 

• Understanding of the interrelationships between services and systems; 

• Ability to learn new tasks quickly and efficiently; 

• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and meet deadlines; 

• Ability to gather and analyze data for reports via multiple modes; 

• Ability to maintain a good working relationship with all co-workers and the general public and to use good judgment in recognizing scope of authority; 

• Detail oriented; 

• Strong customer service focus; 

• Ability to work with culturally diverse population; 

• Proficiency with personal computer, including Microsoft Office; and 

• Accurate data management, documentation and recordkeeping skills. 

These skills and abilities are typically acquired through a combination of education, experience and training. This combination will provide the competence to perform the work of the position.   

Preferred Qualifications 

• Good computer skills. 

• Type 45-50 wpm with less than 5 mistakes. 

• English/Spanish bi-lingual fluency. 

• Bookkeeping or Accounting experience or education. 

Position Requirements

Incumbents are required to have the following:

• Valid Washington State driver’s license;
• Proof of automobile insurance;
• Ability to travel to perform job duties and responsibilities;
• Must pass initial and periodic criminal and background check;
• Must pass initial and periodic employee health clearance; (present it within forty-five (45) days of employment);
• Current First Aid / CPR cards; (suggested for Safety Committee Members within thirty (30) days of membership);
• Subject to initial and periodic TB screen;
• Subject to random drug screen;
• Must sign a Confidentiality Agreement; and
• Must complete and sign a Conflict of Interest Disclosure Statement on an annual basis.