Title: Purchasing Specialist
Location: Houston, TX (Onsite)
Duration: 4 month contract
Work Requirements: U.S. Citizen, Green Card, or Authorized to Work in the U.S.
Summary
We’re supporting a large retail organization seeking a Purchasing Specialist to help manage purchasing activity for new stores, remodels, and ongoing construction projects. This role is a blend of hands-on purchasing, vendor coordination, and cross-functional communication. Ideal candidates are detail-driven, comfortable juggling multiple deadlines, and have strong experience in construction purchasing and/or Oracle purchasing systems.
Responsibilities
- Review and verify construction orders for new stores and remodels (fixtures, millwork, equipment, office furniture, etc.).
- Develop and improve processes to simplify orders and uphold delivery schedules.
- Track, report, and help implement cost-savings initiatives.
- Identify and manage project overages using standardized processes.
- Coordinate with recyclers/liquidators to sell or recycle excess fixtures.
- Partner with Space Planning/POG teams to ensure fixture orders match actual counts.
- Review CAD plans and place accurate office furniture orders with vendors.
- Manage fixture inventory, backstock counts, and seasonal adjustments.
- Participate in project walkthroughs and identify missing or needed items.
- Create and maintain assembly guides for specialty fixtures.
- Partner with store support, merchandising, and construction teams throughout project execution.
- Manage punch-list items and ensure completion after project close.
- Track vendor deliveries, expedite orders when needed, resolve issues (backorders, shortages, late shipments).
- Build strong relationships with vendors, store teams, and internal stakeholders.
- Source and select vendors, place orders, and verify product quality.
- Monitor project execution against timelines and budgets; escalate risks early.
- Attend vendor meetings and partner across teams as needed.
- Manage fixture vendor relations throughout production, logistics, implementation, and project closeout.
- Support other duties as assigned.
Required Experience
- High school diploma required; Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field preferred.
- 5+ years in purchasing, procurement, or negotiating roles (construction purchasing strongly preferred).
- Experience with forecasting, strategic planning, or inventory management is a plus.
- Oracle Purchasing or retail/planning system experience is highly preferred.
- Strong skills in MS Excel, Outlook, and general MS Office.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication skills across levels and teams.
- Detail-oriented, deadline-driven, and highly organized.
- Ability to work independently and in cross-functional groups.
- Ability to handle multiple projects at once.
- Up to 5% travel.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends as needed.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Summa Staffing Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.