Purchasing Agent

Peak North America US encompasses a group of companies who provide fabrication, construction, machinery and plant design for industrial projects in Canada and the US. Rooted in the forest industry, Peak North America US is continuously refining the group of businesses to include innovative projects that meet the demands of the industrial sector.

Companies include Peak North America Construction US, and Endurance Equipment, in Irvington, AL, Advanced Sawmill Machinery in Holt, Florida and real Performance Machinery in Independence, Virginia. Canadian operations include Peak North America Construction Woodpro Engineering and Heartland Steel Structures in Prince George, BC, Peak North America Manufacturing in Canal Flats, BC, and Real Performance Machinery in Enderby, BC.

Peak North America US is seeking a detail oriented, analytical, Purchasing Agent to join our team on site in Irvington, AL. This position will be responsible for procurement of goods, services and equipment essential to the US operations of the company, involving evaluating suppliers, confirming timely delivery of goods, and ensuring cost-effective purchasing practices. The Purchasing Agent plays a critical role in maintaining an efficient supply chain and contributing to the company's overall success.

Primary Responsibilities and Duties:

Reporting to the Purchasing Manager, primary responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Collaborate closely with the VP of US Operations, to align US procurement activities with overall project objectives;
• Make requests for quotes, negotiate and finalize contracts with suppliers;
• Ensure compliance with local, state and federal regulations, trade laws, and company policies;
• Issue purchase orders, carry out reminders and follow-ups, issue amendments;
• Work closely with finance teams to ensure accuracy of invoicing, purchase orders, budgeting;
• Collaborate with daily buying, data entry and accounting administration to streamline purchasing processes;
• Manage equipment rentals in the US, streamlining the process to ensure timely, efficient and cost effective solutions;
• Grow and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure a reliable supply chain;
• Stay informed about industry trends, market conditions and procurement methods that may impact the supply chain;
• Evaluate and manage costs throughout the buying process, seeking opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency improvement;
• Facilitate and coordinate international travel arrangements for company staff traveling between Canada and the US;
• Coordinate courier freight services, understand the company’s major freight processes to provide backup to other purchasing department staff;
• Provide overall coverage and support within the purchasing department when colleagues are away;
• All other duties as requested.

Education & Experience

• Post secondary education in business, supply chain management, technical training or a related field considered an asset;
• 4+ years of proven experience as a purchasing agent, buyer, or in a similar procurement position;
• Experience in the industrial construction industry essential;
• A combination of experience and training will be considered.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Projects, Outlook) and procurement software are essential;
• Understanding of supply chain management principles;
• Experienced negotiation skills and well developed emotional intelligence;
• Strong organizational, coordination, and time management skills;
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, able to build and maintain relationships;
• Analytical mindset and ability to analyze data for cost-benefit evaluations;
• Able to meet tight deadlines and works well under pressure;
• Possess a valid passport, or able to obtain one as occasional international travel is required.
• Full-time employees are offered a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, a 401(k) plan with company match, flexible schedule, paid time off.

If you are a results-driven construction professional and this sounds like the right opportunity for you, please submit your resume, to help us get to know you and your experience better. Concerned you don't check off every box? We encourage you to submit your resume anyway as we are more concerned about finding the right fit than a strict checklist.

EEO/M/F/Disability/Vets/Affirmative Action Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic information, marital status, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristic or category.

Job Type: Full-time