Purchasing Assistant
Summary
Onsite purchasing assistant in a signage manufacturing facility processes orders, tracks inventory, resolves discrepancies, and coordinates with vendors to keep production running smoothly.
Job Title: Purchasing Assistant / Expeditor
Location: Houston, Texas (77086)
Type: Full-time, Onsite, Manufacturing Facility
Hardman Signs is a national leader in architectural signage and graphics. We design, manufacture, install, and service high-impact signage solutions for commercial properties, multi-family housing, healthcare facilities, parking garages, and more. We partner with leading construction companies and architectural design firms to bring signage visions to life—from concept to installation.
Job Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented, proactive Purchasing Assistant / Expeditor to support our Purchasing Manager. This hands-on role focuses on order processing, tracking, inventory coordination, discrepancy resolution, and proactive vendor research. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, excels at follow-up, and contributes to operational efficiency through strong organizational and communication skills.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Order Processing & Expediting: Prepare, issue, and track purchase orders (POs) for raw materials, hardware, fabrication supplies, tools, and services. Ensure timely updates and follow-up to meet production needs.
• Inventory Coordination: Monitor stock levels and collaborate closely with inventory and warehouse teams to anticipate shortages and prevent production delays.
• Discrepancy Resolution: Reconcile shipping receipts against purchase orders and invoices; research and resolve shortages, damaged goods, or billing errors.
• Vendor Communication & Research: Serve as a key point of contact for vendors. Proactively research and source items (e.g., identify specific hardware from a photo by inquiring with existing vendors or finding new ones). Maintain strong vendor relationships.
• Documentation & Compliance: Maintain accurate records of purchases, invoices, receipts, and contracts. Ensure compliance with company policies and relevant regulations.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Work closely with Production, Pre-Construction, Design, and Installation teams to understand material needs and support project timelines.
• Administrative Support: Handle filing, data entry in purchasing/ERP systems, and other tasks to support the Purchasing Manager.