Outside Services Purchasing Agent

Position Summary 

The Outside Services Purchasing Agent is responsible for procuring subcontracted manufacturing and external processing services required to support production operations. This role ensures that outsourced processes are delivered on time, meet quality standards, and align with customer specifications. The position works cross-functionally with internal departments and external suppliers to support production flow, cost control, and on-time delivery performance. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Procure outside processing services required for production operations, including but not limited to heat treating, plating, painting, powder coating, anodizing, grinding, tooling resharpened, laser cutting, specialty machining, and other subcontracted manufacturing services. 

• Coordinate with production planning, engineering, quality, and manufacturing departments to ensure outside service requirements meet production schedules and customer specifications. 

• Solicit quotes, evaluate pricing, negotiate terms, and issue purchase orders in accordance with company policies and procedures. 

• Monitor supplier performance related to quality, on-time delivery, responsiveness, and cost effectiveness. 

• Maintain ongoing communication with vendors regarding schedules, order status, expedited requirements, and corrective actions. 

• Review engineering drawings, specifications, routing requirements, and customer standards to ensure accurate outsourcing requirements. 

• Track and expedite outsourced materials and components to minimize production delays and support on-time delivery goals. 

• Resolve discrepancies involving pricing, invoicing, delivery shortages, damaged materials, and nonconforming product. 

• Maintain accurate purchasing records, supplier documentation, certifications, and ERP system data. 

• Coordinate transportation and logistics related to outsourced processing and movement of materials between suppliers and company facilities. 

• Develop and maintain relationships with qualified suppliers capable of meeting company quality, capacity, and delivery requirements. 

• Support continuous improvement initiatives related to purchasing efficiency, cost reduction, supplier performance, and inventory control. 

• Ensure compliance with company policies, customer requirements, and applicable regulatory and quality standards. 

• Review production priorities and make time-sensitive decisions to support manufacturing operations and customer delivery commitments. 

• Perform work in both office and manufacturing environments requiring frequent interaction with internal departments and external vendors. 
  

Work Environment 

• Combination of office and manufacturing floor environment 

• Frequent communication with internal teams and external suppliers 

• May require occasional supplier visits or coordination with logistics providers 

Minimum Qualifications 

• Associate’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Manufacturing, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience). 

• 2–5 years of purchasing experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably involving outside processing services. 

• Experience with ERP/MRP systems. 

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications. 

• Strong negotiation, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Key Competencies 

• Attention to detail and accuracy. 

• Strong time management and prioritization skills. 

• Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration. 

• Supplier management and negotiation capability. 
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
  

Physical and Attendance Requirements 

This position requires the ability to perform work in an office and manufacturing environment, including prolonged periods of sitting, standing, and computer use. This role requires in-person, regular, and reliable attendance to effectively perform the essential duties and support ongoing production operations. 

Company Overview

We are a family-owned, industry-leading contract manufacturer specializing in high-mix, low-volume machined, fabricated, welded, and assembled components. Our commitment to quality, precision, and innovation drives everything we do.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay based on experience.

• Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401k, etc.).

• Paid time off and holidays.

• Opportunities for skill development and training.

• A team-focused, collaborative work environment.

Why Work for Us?

ISM is more than a workplace — it’s a place to thrive. Here, you’ll join a team of great people with a solution‑driven mindset, supported by a culture of respect, collaboration, and continuous improvement. We invest in the latest cutting‑edge equipment and give you every opportunity to grow through training, development, and annual performance reviews that value your progress. We celebrate wins, host great employee events, and recognize the contributions that make us stronger. If you want to work where innovation meets opportunity — and where your impact is truly felt — this is the place for you.