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