Purchasing Agent, Preconstruction

Role The Purchasing Agent of Preconstruction plays a critical role in all preconstruction activities by supporting the procurement process for materials, equipment, and services required for construction projects. This position is responsible for researching suppliers, negotiating contracts, ensuring timely deliveries, and managing costs to support efficient project planning and execution. Primary Responsibilities Lead the value engineering process by collaborating with stakeholders, architects, manufacturers, and end users to provide alternative products and methods that achieve cost savings without sacrificing functionality, quality, or performance. Collaborate with project teams to estimate costs associated with materials and services required for construction projects. Review and verify purchase requests from project teams, clarify unclear items, and recommend alternative solutions when appropriate. Negotiate terms, contracts, and pricing with suppliers to secure favorable agreements. Obtain competitive bids from suppliers to help control project costs and prevent budget overruns. Establish and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure reliability and quality of products and services. Work within budget constraints while identifying cost-effective solutions without compromising quality. Source and purchase construction materials that meet project specifications and quality standards. Stay informed of market trends, pricing, and availability of construction materials and related services. Identify and mitigate procurement-related risks. Collaborate with Project Managers, Estimating teams, and key stakeholders to align procurement activities with project schedules and objectives. Review material take-offs to ensure accuracy and timely quote requests. Negotiate and purchase General Conditions items in advance of project startup. Maintain accurate records of procurement activities, contracts, and vendor communications. Ensure compliance with applicable regulations, company policies, and industry standards. Secure materials and services that consistently meet project quality standards and requirements. Work with the Claims Department to resolve procurement-related issues including product defects or vendor disputes. Identify opportunities to improve procurement processes, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. Qualifications Education Bachelor's Degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Construction Management, or a related field preferred. Skills Ability to negotiate favorable terms, contracts, and pricing with suppliers. Ability to interpret and modify product specifications as needed. Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate cost estimates, market trends, and budget impacts. Ability to read and interpret construction drawings. Experience performing quantity take-offs is beneficial. Strong communication skills with vendors, project teams, architects, subcontractors, and key stakeholders. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and timelines. Ability to research and evaluate suppliers and changing market conditions. Understanding of budgeting, cost estimation, and financial impacts related to procurement. Ability to identify and resolve procurement-related challenges. Strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy in contracts, specifications, and documentation. Ability to establish and maintain strong working relationships with vendors and stakeholders. Strong decision-making skills while balancing project requirements and budget considerations. Familiarity with construction materials, specifications, and industry standards. Knowledge of contract management processes, terms, and compliance requirements. Ability to identify and mitigate procurement-related risks. Flexibility to adapt to changing project requirements, market conditions, and unforeseen challenges. Experience Minimum of 4 years of experience in the construction industry, including procurement, project management, or related roles. Experience collaborating with Project Managers, Estimating teams, and other stakeholders. Practical experience negotiating supplier contracts, terms, and pricing. Experience developing and maintaining vendor relationships to ensure reliability and quality. Experience managing budgets and procurement-related costs. APICS, ISM, or Six Sigma certifications are considered a plus. Company Benefits include 401(k) Safe Harbor Contribution (3%) Profit Sharing (2%) Medical Insurance Employer Funded HRA Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Employer Paid Life Insurance ($50,000) Voluntary Life Insurance Pet Insurance And much more RENU offers a strong team environment, a culture built on collaboration and integrity, and opportunities for long-term growth and development. RENU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply Now