Purchasing Specialist

Rubber & Gasket Company of America North Little Rock, Arkansas, United States

About this position

Own Your Work. Own Your Future.

At RGA, you're not just working a job-you're investing in your future. As part of our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), you earn real equity and get a voice in a company that treats you like a person, not a number. That means when we grow, you grow. Whether you're starting out or looking to advance, this is a place where your work makes a real impact-and where leadership listens.


Why You'll Like It Here:

Real Ownership - You earn equity. That means real financial growth, not just a paycheck.Supportive, Respectful Culture - We treat you like a pro and trust you to do your job-no micromanagingStrong Benefits - Medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, vacation, holidays, and stock ownership.Career Growth - Learn hands-on skills and move up fast. Many of our managers started on the floor.Purposeful Work - What you build here helps keep America running-schools, farms, factories, and more.You Belong Here If You're:

Reliable, motivated, and ready to learnProud of your work and your teamLooking for more than just another jobSound like you? Don't wait-apply today and start building a future you truly own.




Position Purpose

To independently manage purchasing and procurement activities, ensuring materials, supplies, and services are sourced efficiently, cost-effectively, and in alignment with company standards. The Purchasing Specialist II serves as a knowledgeable resource for purchasing decisions, vendor relations, and problem resolution.


Goals of Position:

Ensure timely and accurate procurement of materials and suppliesMaintain strong vendor relationships and negotiate favorable termsSupport inventory optimization and cost-control initiativesResolve purchasing discrepancies with minimal supervisionEnsure compliance with purchasing policies and proceduresResponsibilities:

Independently create, review, and manage purchase ordersCommunicate with vendors regarding pricing, availability, lead times, and delivery issuesNegotiate routine pricing, freight terms, and order conditions within established guidelinesResolve discrepancies related to pricing, quantities, billing, or deliveryCoordinate purchasing activities with warehouse, sales, and accounting teamsAssist with inventory planning, replenishment, and special projectsSupport training or guidance for Purchasing Specialist I, as neededPerform other duties as assignedMajor Challenges:

Managing complex or high-volume purchasing needs across departmentsBalancing cost control with operational urgencyAddressing vendor performance issues or supply chain disruptionsEnsuring accuracy and compliance while working independentlyPrioritizing multiple purchasing requests with competing deadlinesAuthority:

·         Act Alone:

Manage routine purchasing activities and vendor communicationsNegotiate standard pricing and delivery terms within approved limitsResolve purchasing discrepancies and documentation issues·         Touch Base with Supervisor:

Escalate vendor performance concerns or recurring supply issuesReview inventory strategy or unusual purchasing trendsDiscuss process improvements or cost-saving opportunities·         Need Approval from Supervisor:

Select or replace vendorsApprove non-standard pricing, contracts, or special purchase arrangementsCommit to large, non-budgeted, or high-risk expendituresEvaluated Quarterly On:

Education and Experience

Required: High School Diploma or equivalent

3–5 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or inventory managementERP or purchasing system experience preferred Certificates/Licenses/Registrations

·         None required