Purchasing Officer – Manufacturing

We are an established precast concrete manufacturing company committed to delivering high-quality products to our clients across drainage, electrical, communications, and landscaping sectors. We're seeking a detail-oriented and organized Purchasing Officer to join our team and support the timely procurement of materials and supplies essential to our operations. The Role As Purchasing Officer, you will be responsible for executing day-to-day purchasing activities, managing supplier communications, processing purchase orders, and ensuring materials are delivered on time and within specifications. Working under the direction of the General Manager, you will maintain accurate purchasing records, coordinate with warehouse and production teams, and play a key role in keeping our operations running smoothly. Key Responsibilities Purchase Order Management & Processing Raise and process purchase orders in line with production and inventory needs. Prepare requisitions with detailed specifications and obtain necessary approvals. Issue purchase orders to suppliers and track their status through delivery. Follow up on outstanding orders and expedite deliveries when required. Handle international procurement (China), including foreign currency and logistics coordination. Maintain professional relationships with approved suppliers. Coordinate material flow between suppliers, warehouse, and production. Communicate delivery requirements and address supplier concerns. Track inbound and outbound orders to prevent overstocking and stockouts. Resolve delivery discrepancies and quality issues promptly. Inventory Monitoring & Control Monitor raw materials and finished goods inventory levels. Conduct inventory analysis and cycle counting. Identify slow-moving stock and report on inventory aging. Support inventory optimization to prevent excess inventory or shortages. Documentation & Record Keeping Maintain accurate and organized purchasing records and documentation. File and organize supplier agreements, invoices, and purchase orders. Update supplier contact information and maintain vendor databases. Ensure all purchasing documentation is accurate for audit trails and financial reconciliation. Prepare purchasing reports as required by management. Quality Assurance & Issue Resolution Assist with receiving goods and coordinate quality control checks. Identify and report material quality issues to suppliers and management. Initiate corrective actions for defects or non‑compliance with specifications. Maintain records of quality issues and supplier performance. Contribute to continuous improvement in procurement processes. Administrative Support & Coordination Assist Production Manager & Sales Team with material availability and supply status updates. Maintain organized filing systems and databases. Support procurement team with data entry and routine administrative tasks. Requirements Essential Qualifications Secondary education (Year 12) or equivalent. Minimum 2–3 years’ experience in a purchasing, procurement, or administrative role. Strong understanding of international supply chains, logistics, and currency handling. Negotiation skills and a commercial mindset to secure best value from suppliers. Product knowledge in precast concrete products is an advantage. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook). Strong knowledge of inventory management and purchasing processes. Excellent organizational and time‑management abilities. Strong attention to detail and accuracy. Reliable, trustworthy, and professional communication skills. Ability to work efficiently with multiple tasks and priorities. Good interpersonal skills for working with suppliers and internal teams. Problem‑solving mindset with the ability to resolve issues independently. Proficiency with data entry and database systems. Desirable Qualifications Certificate III or IV in Procurement and Contracting or Business Administration. Experience with ERP systems or procurement software. Experience with inventory management systems. Knowledge of manufacturing processes or precast concrete industry. Personal Attributes Reliable and punctual with strong work ethic. Team player with ability to collaborate across departments. Adaptable and proactive in responding to changing priorities. Honest and ethical approach to procurement practices. Willingness to learn and develop new skills. What We Offer Competitive salary package plus superannuation. Welcoming, supportive team environment. Opportunity to develop procurement skills and knowledge. Clear pathway for advancement to procurement management roles. Modern manufacturing facilities in Melbourne's north. Flexible working arrangements where possible. Professional development and training support. Working Conditions Full-time role (38 hours per week). Standard business hours: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday. Occasional afterhours or weekend work may be required to meet deadlines. #J-18808-Ljbffr