Job Description
Position Summary The Steel Purchasing Manager is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing steel products and related materials to support distribution operations. This role manages supplier relationships, monitors market trends, controls costs, ensures product availability for customer demand, and works closely with sales, warehouse, operations, and finance teams to maintain efficient procurement and inventory processes.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop and implement purchasing strategies for steel products, metal materials, and related distribution inventory. Source and evaluate suppliers based on pricing, quality, availability, delivery timelines, and service performance. Negotiate contracts, pricing, terms, and supply agreements with mills, service centers, and vendors. Monitor steel market trends, pricing fluctuations, and supply chain risks to make informed purchasing decisions. Maintain inventory levels to support customer demand, branch stock requirements, and order fulfillment goals. Collaborate with sales, warehouse, and operations teams to forecast product needs and align purchasing with demand. Issue purchase orders and ensure timely delivery of materials to distribution centers or customer locations. Resolve vendor issues involving shortages, delayed shipments, quality concerns, or billing discrepancies. Track and analyze purchasing data, inventory turnover, cost savings, and supplier performance metrics. Coordinate with logistics teams to manage inbound freight, delivery scheduling, and transportation efficiency. Ensure compliance with company procurement policies, inventory controls, and industry standards. Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, internal departments, and branch personnel. Work with accounting and finance teams to reconcile invoices, manage budgets, and support margin goals. Qualifications:
Several years of purchasing or procurement experience, preferably in steel, metals, distribution, manufacturing, or construction supply industries. Strong knowledge of steel products, material specifications, pricing structures, and distribution supply chain processes. Experience negotiating contracts and managing vendor relationships. Proficiency in ERP systems, inventory management software, purchasing systems, and Microsoft Office applications. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication and negotiation abilities. Ability to work in a fast-paced distribution environment and manage multiple priorities. Competencies:
Knowledge of domestic and international steel markets. Experience with inventory planning, demand forecasting, and stock replenishment. Familiarity with freight, logistics, transportation coordination, and warehouse operations. Understanding of quality standards, product specifications, and customer service expectations in a distribution environment. Certification in procurement or supply chain management is a plus. •Opportunity is available in multiple locations (Dewey, AZ, Chicago, IL, Houston, TX)•Salary commensurate with experience•Benefits:
401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Paid parental leave Paid time off Vision insurance Work Location:
In person
