Job Category
Production
Location
Lexington, KY
Salary Range
$58,000.00 - $68,000.00
Position: Purchasing and Production Specialist
Position Summary:
We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Purchasing and Production Specialist to oversee the end-to-end production process, from purchase order (PO) management and forecasting to scheduling, shipping, and invoice issuance. This role requires strong communication and coordination skills to effectively collaborate with internal teams, suppliers, and warehouses. Additionally, occasional support for inspection and packaging operations at the warehouse may be required.

Key Responsibilities:
Production Planning & PO Management
  • Develop and manage production schedules based on demand forecasts and sales orders.
  • Handle purchase order (PO) management, ensuring timely procurement of raw materials and components.
  • Coordinate with suppliers and internal teams to maintain optimal inventory levels and prevent shortages.
  • Collaborate with different offices and departments (e.g., sales, logistics, procurement) to align production and delivery schedules.
Production Execution & Shipping Management
  • Monitor production progress and ensure schedules are met, making adjustments when necessary.
  • Manage shipping operations, including invoice issuance and preparation of shipping documents.
  • Work closely with warehouses and logistics teams to ensure accurate and timely shipments.
  • Perform inventory control to maintain the right stock levels and prevent overstock or shortages.
  • Conduct quality control inspections, ensuring compliance with company and industry standards.
  • Support warehouse operations, including inspection and packaging, when needed.
Customer Service
  • Responding to customer inquiries
  • Handle customer inquiries and complaints promptly and professionally via phone, email or in-person.
  • Work to resolve issues and provide detailed information about products or services to ensure customer satisfaction.
Managing quality issues:
  • Address product quality concerns or complaints by collaborating with customers to find quick resolutions.
  • Work closely with the quality control department to prevent future issues and ensure product standards are maintained.
Continuous Improvement & Problem Solving
  • Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in production and logistics, proposing improvement measures.
  • Implement cost-saving initiatives in procurement and inventory management.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve production and shipping issues by working with suppliers and internal teams.
  • Utilize ERP systems to streamline production and inventory control processes.
  • Ensure compliance with industry regulations and internal quality standards.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
  • Experience in production control, supply chain management, or logistics.
  • Strong PO management, forecasting, and scheduling skills.
  • Proficiency in invoice issuance and shipping documentation.
  • Excellent communication and coordination skills to liaise with internal teams, suppliers, and warehouses.
  • Ability to multitask and adapt to fast-paced production environments.
  • Strong problem-solving skills to address production delays, inventory shortages, and shipping issues.
  • Basic understanding of inventory management principles
  • Willingness to occasionally support warehouse operations (inspection & packaging).
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in the manufacturing industry.
  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement methodologies.