Purchasing Agent - Ulbrich Stainless Steels & Special Metals, Inc.

Ulbrich Stainless Steels & Special Metals, Inc. is a high-precision, value added processor of stainless steels, special metals, and specialty wire products.  Ulbrich was established in 1924 and is privately held. It has 9 wholly owned subsidiaries located in the US, Mexico, Canada, and Austria employ over 700 people worldwide. Our continued growth translates into career opportunities in many areas and locations. We are on the cutting edge of many new technologies and product applications and our future is an exciting one. Come grow with us and be part of our promising future!

Lead, monitor and perform activities associated with the procurement of materials, components, supplies, tools, parts, equipment, or other supplies required in the manufacturing and distribution of the company's product.   Establish and monitor vendor managed inventory programs.  Ensure compliance with procurement related quality management system standards, processes and procedures. Responsible for notification of new suppliers, new raw materials, processors or chemicals purchased. Responsible for following EMS requirements regarding safe sourcing.

Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Provide procurement services and support to Ulbrich organization.  Work collaboratively with internal department managers and metallurgy as required to identify and define internal or customer requirements.  Identify potential vendors, products materials, etc. to meet requirements.
• Coordinate the requisitioning and procurement of supply, tool, and equipment purchase orders including the review, approval and verification of all steel, special metals and MRO orders with approved suppliers.  Provide training and assistance to Purchasing Assistant on the purchasing and requisition process.
• Research, identify, and evaluate potential vendors/suppliers of materials, equipment, parts, tools, supplies, corporate lease, credit card and rental contracts, services and programs.  Recommend supplier/provider to applicable internal managers.  Request bids; negotiate pricing, service, terms and conditions that best benefit the organization.  Maintain all related contracts, lease, and purchasing agreements.  Review, reconcile and approve for payment related invoices.
• Review and maintain established min/max inventory levels for all operating materials and supplies. 
• Perform follow up on orders to expedite delivery, resolve price discrepancies and/or to identify alternative products when necessary.  
• Test and evaluate new products, methods, equipment etc.  Document and report findings. 
• Negotiate national contracts for the company in MRO.
• Negotiate with vendors and suppliers in order to achieve improved pricing, delivery and availability. 
• Coordinate the investigation and resolution of all material related issues and steel rejections from inception to disposition.  Work with vendor/supplier representative or metallurgists in the negotiation of remedy in a timely manner in order to minimize the impact on operational efficiency and on time delivery of product to customer.  Track and maintain all related records. 
• Prepare related debit and credit memos, dispositions and rejection templates as required. 
• Establish and maintain vendor managed inventory (VMI) programs.  Negotiate vendor contracts to secure and maintain optimum pricing at below market value price index and to yield annual rebate.  Educate Group Leaders on the objectives and benefits of VMI programs.
• Define and implement work cells to maximize ordering efficiency, reduce cost and conserve organizational assets.  Collaborate with vendor/supplier to improve efficiencies.  Review and determine items and areas of business to add and remove to VMI programs.
• Manage the review and assessment of VMI program to identify opportunities for continuous program improvement. 
• Fulfill role as primary VMI liaison for USSM, and participating Wire, Corporate and Warehouse operations.
• Maintain all quality management system documentation in accordance with established procedures. Assist Director in the development of procurement related quality processes, metrics and operational procedures.  Participate in quality system internal and ISO audits and re-certification activities and corrective action initiatives.
• Regular attendance at work is required. 

• Bachelors Degree preferably in the area of business or materials management or the equivalent combination of education and experience,
• Minimum 5 years previous qualifying experience within a manufacturing related purchasing function, preferably with specific experience with the procurement of metals, high volume order and specialty materials in a volatile commodities market.
• Demonstrated ability to influence others and conduct effective negotiations.
• Demonstrated ability to make sound, accurate decisions and timely decisions.  Supports decisions with facts and reasoning.  Includes appropriate people in decision making process.
• Ability to communicate effectively with individuals within all spheres of the organization.
• Demonstrated relationship development and management skills.

This position offers competitive salary and benefits and the opportunity to expand your skills within a company that offers both a diverse workforce and a welcoming company culture. 

Diversified Ulbrich is an Equal Opportunity Employer

M/F/Veterans/Disabled