Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Buyer to manage the sourcing and purchasing of electrical components, materials, equipment, and related supplies. This position will work closely with project management, estimating, operations, and vendors to ensure materials are purchased at competitive pricing and delivered according to project schedules. The ideal candidate will have strong experience purchasing electrical components and construction materials and will understand the importance of product specifications, lead times, vendor relationships, pricing, and material availability within the electrical industry.
Key Responsibilities
Purchase electrical components, equipment, materials, and supplies required for projects and operations.
Source and negotiate with electrical distributors, manufacturers, and other suppliers to obtain competitive pricing, favorable terms, and reliable delivery schedules.
Review purchase requisitions, project requirements, specifications, drawings, and bills of material to determine purchasing needs.
Obtain and evaluate vendor quotes based on price, quality, availability, lead time, and compliance with specifications.
Issue and manage purchase orders from initial placement through delivery.
Monitor material availability and lead times and proactively address potential shortages or delays.
Develop and maintain strong relationships with key vendors and electrical suppliers.
Negotiate pricing, volume discounts, freight terms, payment terms, and other purchasing agreements.
Coordinate closely with project managers, estimators, field operations, and accounting to ensure purchasing activities support project schedules and budgets.
Track market conditions, material pricing, and supply-chain trends that may affect electrical equipment and components.
Identify alternative products or suppliers when necessary while ensuring compliance with project specifications.
Resolve discrepancies involving pricing, quantities, damaged materials, invoices, and deliveries.
Maintain accurate purchasing records, vendor information, pricing history, and supporting documentation.
Assist management in evaluating supplier performance and identifying opportunities for purchasing efficiencies and cost savings.
Qualifications
Previous purchasing experience involving electrical components, equipment, or electrical construction materials is required.
Strong knowledge of electrical products and terminology, including items such as wire and cable, conduit, fittings, breakers, switchgear, panels, transformers, lighting, controls, and related electrical components.
Experience working with electrical distributors, manufacturers, or suppliers strongly preferred.
Demonstrated experience negotiating pricing and purchasing terms.
Ability to read and understand material specifications, purchase requirements, and bills of material.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, purchase orders, vendors, and deadlines simultaneously.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Excellent communication and vendor-management skills.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and purchasing, ERP, or construction management systems.
Experience in electrical contracting, commercial construction, industrial construction, or a related environment is highly preferred.
Ideal Candidate The successful candidate will be a seasoned purchasing professional who understands the electrical supply chain and can quickly determine what needs to be purchased, where to source it, and how to secure the best combination of price, quality, and delivery. This individual should be comfortable working in a fast-paced project environment where material availability and purchasing decisions can have a direct impact on project schedules and profitability.
