Purchasing-Inventory Spec

Ritter Communications is the largest privately held telecommunications provider serving exclusively the Mid-South, offering world-class broadband fiber, telecom, video, cloud and data center services. The company has grown rapidly over the years, investing millions recently in technology infrastructure and is now serving 155 communities and more than 57,000 customers in Arkansas, Texas, Missouri and Tennessee. Headquartered in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Ritter Communications invests heavily in the communities it serves by deploying proven, best-in-class infrastructure and technology, while coupling it with a world-class customer-focused experience.

General Summary:                                                                                                            

Responsible for the purchase and inventory of equipment and subsequent supply to internal service departments, external contractors and customers.  Performs acquisition, disposition and distribution of goods using provisioning systems.  Supports current best practices in lean inventory management and financial control using internal and vendor-supported programs.  Engages regularly with Operations, Construction and Engineering teams to forecast, order and supply key project requirements within guidelines.

Essential Job Functions:

• Responsible for the purchase, receipt, inventory and distribution of equipment, supplies, tools and materials using the company’s ERP system. Performs adequate oversight and verification to ensure timely and accurate delivery of specified goods or services.
• Perform order management activities that provide current visibility on open and past due orders, project costs, etc.
• Maintain vendor relationships to achieve best value at lowest cost.
• Maintains equipment hardware and warehouse data by checking in and provisioning digital equipment, entering returns and performing repairs as necessary.
• Responsible for incoming and outgoing logistics, including the receipt, unloading, packaging, shipping and filing of claims with freight carriers for lost or damaged items.
• Manages inventory to ensure maximum efficiency by monitoring stock levels, performing cycle counts and physical inventories. Stocks, organizes and maintains neat and clean warehouse. Operates forklift as necessary.
• Works with other departments to provide up-to-date information on equipment, supplies and tools needed.
• Ensures employee safety and OSHA compliance by maintaining safe work area.
• Travels to customer sites, project areas, business related events, and other Ritter Communications locations as required. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:                                                             

• Proficient in using ERP systems to purchase, receive, inventory and distribute equipment. Proficient in software programs such as Microsoft Windows, Word, and Excel as well as inventory management software. 
• Knowledge of industry products, services, policies, and procedures.
• Skill in operating personal computers and various computer equipment such as laptops, printers, modems, barcode printers and barcode scanners.
• Knowledge of accounting procedures and internal controls as they relate to purchasing and inventory management.
• Knowledge of warehouse and storage procedures.
• Knowledge of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Skill in preparing various reports such as inventory summaries and accounting reports.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in identifying problems and resolutions.
• Skill in completing multiple tasks at once.
• Skill in reading and interpreting technical documents and forms including purchase orders, invoices, inventory transaction sheets, work orders, trouble tickets, and service orders.
• Skill in operating various office equipment such as copier, fax, pagers, and telephone.
• Ability to operate forklift and maintain appropriate certification.
• Ability to communicate with coworkers, customers and vendors in a professional manner.
• Ability to pay close attention to detail.
• Ability to organize work and time of self and others.
• Ability to work as a team player.
• Ability to work independently to make decisions and meet department deadlines.
• Ability to travel for business requirements; must possess a valid Driver’s License with a satisfactory driving record.

Education and Experience:   

College degree preferred, High School Diploma required.  3-5 years Warehouse management experience desired.  Experience in inventory controls and management a plus.  Familiarity with various telephony industry equipment a plus.

Ritter Communications is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We strive to maintain a drug-free workplace.

We offer competitive compensation and an outstanding benefits package including health, dental, vision, cancer, accident and life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, 401(k) with company match, flexible spending accounts, free gym membership, company discounts, tuition reimbursement, paid training, paid leave, and much more!