
Purchasing Specialist
Palmer-Donavin, Columbus, OH, United States
Position Overview
The Purchasing Specialist plays a critical role in ensuring Palmer-Donavin has the right products available at the right time to meet customer demand. This position is responsible for executing the day-to-day purchasing process with accuracy and urgency, maintaining clean and reliable data in the ERP system, and supporting communication between vendors and internal teams.
This role serves as the operational backbone of the purchasing function—allowing Buyers to focus on strategic sourcing and vendor relationships while ensuring execution is consistent, timely, and dependable.
Key Responsibilities:
Create and submit purchase orders to vendors based on system demand and buyer direction
Review purchase orders for accuracy, including pricing, quantities, delivery timelines, and ship-to locations
Track vendor acknowledgements and maintain up-to-date delivery and cost information in the ERP system
Follow up on open, delayed, or unconfirmed orders to ensure timely resolution
Communicate order updates, delays, and risks to internal stakeholders
Maintain accurate item and vendor data within the ERP system, including pricing and lead times
Assist with new product setup and ensure items are correctly configured for purchasing and sales
Monitor inventory levels and system alerts, escalating potential shortages or discrepancies
Support inventory reporting, data analysis, and cycle count reconciliation efforts
Collaborate with Customer Service, Accounting, Receiving, and Sales teams to provide updates and resolve issues
Respond to internal inquiries regarding order status, inventory availability, and vendor communication
Participate in team meetings and provide updates on open issues or risks
Identify process inefficiencies and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, Operations, or a related field preferred
0–2 years of experience in purchasing, supply chain, operations, or a related role preferred
Strong attention to detail with a high level of accuracy
Excellent organizational and time management skills
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and general comfort working within systems/ERP platforms
Problem-solving mindset with the ability to proactively follow up and resolve issues
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across teams
Requirements
Satisfactory criminal history check
Signed confidentiality agreement