Purchasing Specialist

We are looking for a Purchasing Specialist to support the material planning function through reporting, analysis, and supplier coordination in St Paul, Minnesota. This Contract position focuses on building reliable forecast data, tracking order status, and helping the team identify supply risks before they affect operations. The ideal candidate is comfortable working with Excel and procurement systems, communicates clearly with internal teams and vendors, and uses data to support practical business decisions.

Responsibilities:

• Build and update supplier forecast reports by combining information from procurement systems and Excel-based tracking tools.

• Review planning and purchasing data to uncover shortages, timing issues, and other risks that could disrupt supply availability.

• Track outstanding purchase orders and follow up with vendors to secure confirmations, revisions, and updated delivery information.

• Work with planners, procurement partners, and suppliers to address material constraints and keep orders aligned with business needs.

• Prepare targeted analyses and reporting that help the team make informed purchasing and planning decisions.

• Organize and validate data from multiple sources to improve forecast accuracy and support daily operational priorities

• Bachelor’s degree in business or a related field.
• 0–2 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, planning, or a comparable supply chain role.
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills with the ability to work confidently in spreadsheets and analyze data sets.
• Clear verbal and written communication skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret supply plans, identify gaps, and explain findings to internal stakeholders.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience with SAP or similar enterprise procurement systems is preferred.