Purchasing Assistant

PURCHASING ASSISTANT

GRADE 4 – Starting salary $50,000

Founded in 1981, Keilhauer is a privately owned, design‑focused contract furniture manufacturer. Keilhauer manufactures seating and tables that make work more comfortable for all. Keilhauer products are thoughtfully created to support communication and engagement in spaces such as meeting rooms, collaboration areas, lobbies, and lunchrooms. Working with world‑renowned furniture designers, Keilhauer is internationally recognized for award‑winning design, built with extreme craftsmanship, to the highest environmental standards.

SUMMARY

We are seeking a motivated and detail‑oriented Purchasing Assistant to join our Procurement team. This entry‑level position is perfect for someone who is organized, proactive, and eager to learn in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. Working under the direction of the Procurement Manager, you will collaborate with other departments to support daily purchasing operations, ensuring that inventory levels of office supplies, personal protective equipment, hardware components, and miscellaneous items meet operational needs.

No prior purchasing experience is necessary, just a strong desire to learn, contribute, and grow within the role. Your ability to build meaningful working relationships, prioritize tasks, and communicate effectively will be key to your success. As you progress, you will gain hands‑on experience with procurement processes, vendor coordination, and purchasing systems, contributing to continuous improvements that further Keilhauer’s mission of making work more comfortable for all.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support and administration
  • Prepares a daily schedule for the Driver, as requested by the Purchasing Agents.
  • Performs and coordinates various administrative duties for the Purchasing team.
  • On a daily basis, ensures that sufficient inventory levels are maintained for supplies and ensures purchase orders are in place and in accordance with supplier lead times.
• Purchasing
  • Prepares, issues and expedites purchase orders and change notices.
  • Purchases Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) supplies for all manufacturing facilities.
  • Sources and assigns most cost‑effective MRO suppliers.
  • Assists Purchasing Agents in sourcing alternate suppliers where applicable.
  • Responsible for compiling data for monthly supplier performance reports.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous experience in an administrative role, preferably within a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
• Post‑Secondary certificate or diploma, preferably in Business/Operations Management or a related field.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook; previous experience using SyteLine or similar ERP is recommended.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• This role is performed primarily in an office environment which is typically quiet. Most of your duties will be fulfilled with the use of a computer and office equipment, with communication taking place by phone, email or in person. Some functions of your role will be conducted in the manufacturing facility, where you may be exposed to dust particulates and noise.
• Frequent, dynamic interaction through face‑to‑face contact, email and phone communications.
• Must be able to handle frequent interruptions to planned work activities.
• Must be able to respond and adapt quickly in a dynamic and changing environment.
• Must be able to handle the stress of dealing with issues in a professional manner.
• Must be willing to participate in seminars, training and/or thought leadership relevant to the position or industry.
• Follows all company and OSHA Safety regulations; works in a safe manner and uses personal protective equipment, if required; reinforces housekeeping and Keilhauer’s core values.

EMPLOYMENT DETAILS

• Seniority level: Entry level
• Employment type: Full‑time
• Job function: Administrative, Purchasing, and Supply Chain
• Industries: Furniture and Home Furnishings Manufacturing

Keilhauer is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive, respectful environment for all employees.

If this role is for you, please send your resume to careers@keilhauer.com and tell us why you would be a great addition to our team! Please note that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.