Purchase Assistant

As a Purchase Assistant, you will support the procurement department with a range of crucial tasks, including processing purchase orders, tracking shipments, and maintaining accurate records. Your efforts will ensure the timely and cost-effective procurement of essential solar components and related materials, contributing directly to project success.  Key Responsibilities Purchase Order Management: Assist in the preparation, processing, and issuance of purchase orders (POs) to suppliers, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies. Vendor Coordination: Communicate effectively with vendors to obtain quotes, negotiate pricing and terms, track order status, and resolve any discrepancies or delays in shipments. Documentation & Record Keeping: Maintain and update purchasing records, price lists, contracts, and supplier databases, ensuring all documentation is current and organized for audit purposes. Inventory Support: Monitor inventory levels, coordinate with warehouse staff to compare deliveries against purchase orders (GRN), and help manage stock to prevent shortages or overstocking. Market Research: Conduct basic market research to identify potential new vendors and suppliers, comparing product quality, prices, and reliability to support procurement decisions. Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Work closely with the engineering, project management, finance, and warehouse teams to understand material requirements and ensure alignment between procurement activities and project timelines. Problem Resolution: Address issues related to delayed orders, damaged goods, or incorrect invoices, liaising with relevant parties to find timely resolutions. Administrative Support: Provide general administrative support to the Purchasing Manager and the wider procurement team as needed.  Required Skills & Qualifications Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is required; an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is preferred. Experience: Proven experience in a purchasing, administrative, or inventory control role is preferred. Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, for data analysis, reporting, and record-keeping. Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems or procurement software is a significant advantage.