The Sr Purchasing Agent strengthens manufacturing operations by developing and managing supplier partnerships, supporting supply chain processes, and ensuring the timely, cost-effective delivery of quality materials. This role serves as the local representative for Supply Chain and acts as a liaison for regional programs and initiatives across the broader Supply Chain organization. The Sr Purchasing Agent is responsible for supplier performance, contract and cost management, continuous improvement, and internal customer satisfaction. Essential Job
Duties
and
Responsibilities
Manage supplier performance related to quality, delivery, cost, and overall service levels. Develop and maintain supplier relationships that support business needs, manufacturing requirements, and customer expectations. Create, negotiate, and manage supplier agreements, including contracts, supplier-managed inventory, consignment, and related purchasing programs. Drive cost management initiatives, identify savings opportunities, and support achievement of cost reduction targets. Support supplier consolidation, sourcing activities, and material planning strategies to improve efficiency and supply continuity. Partner with Operations, Quality, Engineering, and Product Development teams to resolve supplier, material, and purchased-product issues. Support engineering change orders, new product development, and cross-functional sourcing projects. Lead or support procurement-related projects, process improvements, and supply chain initiatives. Perform all other duties as assigned.
Education
and
Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Logistics, or a related field is required. A minimum of five years of purchasing, procurement, or supply chain experience is required.
Experience
in a manufacturing environment is preferred.
Skills and Abilities
Strong negotiation, planning, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Ability to interpret and communicate basic engineered drawings, specifications, and technical requirements. Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrated ability to develop effective processes, influence stakeholders, and drive results. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with cross-functional teams. Proficient with Microsoft Office applications, including Power BI, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and SharePoint. Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact effectively at all levels of the organization.
Experience
developing and implementing project plans, schedules, and process improvements. Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles is preferred. SAP experience is a plus. Working Environment and Physical Demands To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Travel Required Estimated 25% #LI-TT1 #nordsonindustrialcoatingsystems At Nordson, we believe that anything is possible. We empower our global team of employees to engineer, manufacture, and market innovative products and systems that are essential to everyday life. These differentiated products and systems are used for precision dispensing and processing and serve a variety of end markets, including packaging, transportation, medical, and electronics. Founded in 1954, we are guided by our values of integrity, respect for people, customer passion, energy, and excellence. We care for our employees and provide them with opportunities to advance their careers and make an impact, inside and outside of work. Nordson is headquartered in Westlake, Ohio, and has direct operations in more than 35 countries to support our products and systems with application expertise and a direct global sales and service organization.