Purchasing Officer – Manufacturing

Add expected salary to your profile for insights 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 Office-based role Unlock job insights Salary match Number of applicants Skills match Your application will include the following questions: Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia? How many years' experience do you have as a purchasing officer? How many years' experience do you have in a procurement role? Do you have freight imports experience? Do you have purchasing experience? Which of the following Microsoft Office products are you experienced with? Do you have experience with inventory management? Purchasing & Inventory Officer – High Tech Manufacturing #J-18808-Ljbffr