Company Overview Newport Industries, Inc. is a dynamic holding company comprising a network of leading specialty construction and technology firms serving industrial, commercial, and institutional clients across Northern Illinois and Southeastern Wisconsin. Our organization is rooted in a tradition of excellence, innovation, and long-term growth, with a focus on safety, quality, and exceeding customer expectations. Job Overview We are seeking an energetic and detail-oriented Purchasing Agent to join our team. In this vital role, you will manage procurement activities across multiple systems, ensuring the timely acquisition of materials and services needed for our diverse projects. Your expertise in supply chain management, vendor relationships, and ERP systems will drive efficiency and cost savings while supporting our commitment to operational excellence.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Training:

• High School diploma or GED.
• Associate's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1-3 years of purchasing experience, preferably in electrical construction or related technical industries.
• Familiar with electrical materials, low-voltage systems, fire alarm components, or construction supplies (preferred).
• Experience working with electrical distributors or manufacturers (preferred)
• Strong organizational, communication, and follow-up skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Foundational computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and the Internet. Ability to navigate at a basic level within web-based applications.
• Use of Outlook email and calendaring
• Advanced skills with Microsoft applications which may include Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and/or other web-based applications.

Essential Job Functions:

Procurement & Order Management

• Source and purchase electrical materials and equipment; obtain and compare vendor quotes; issue purchase orders; and confirm pricing, availability, and delivery timelines.
• Track orders, monitor back orders, resolve delivery issues, and ensure materials meet project specifications and compliance requirements. Project & Field Support
• Collaborate with project managers to review material requirements, schedules, take-offs, and specifications to ensure accurate procurement.
• Coordinate deliveries to job sites and warehouse locations, communicate order updates, and support field team with materials logistics. Vendor Coordination
• Maintain professional relationships with suppliers and distributors, supporting negotiation of pricing and terms under the direction of Senior Purchasing Agent.
• Track vendor performance and reliability, assist in maintaining preferred vendor lists, and monitor supplier responsiveness. Document & Cost Control
• Maintain accurate purchasing records, documentation, and cost tracking to support budget adherence and financial reporting.
• Assist with invoice reconciliation, discrepancy resolution, and documentation required for compliance and project audits.
• Assist with job closeout procedures. Other Duties
• Attend staff, departmental, and other required meetings and training.
• Travel to client or prospect locations, conference, or other professional development and networking events - minimal.
• Other duties as assigned.

Working Environment and Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.

• While performing the duties of this position, the employee frequently is required to use hands or fingers, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls.
• The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
• The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate The job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.

Kelso-Burnett is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability, or other protected status, such as race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or age.

Pay:

$25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Retirement plan Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person