Purchasing Assistant

Job Title: Purchasing Assistant / Expeditor

Location: Houston, Texas (77086)

Type: Full-time, Onsite, Manufacturing Facility

Hardman Signs is a national leader in architectural signage and graphics. We design, manufacture, install, and service high-impact signage solutions for commercial properties, multi-family housing, healthcare facilities, parking garages, and more. We partner with leading construction companies and architectural design firms to bring signage visions to life - from concept to installation.

Job Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented, proactive Purchasing Assistant / Expeditor to support our Purchasing Manager. This hands-on role focuses on order processing, tracking, inventory coordination, discrepancy resolution, and proactive vendor research. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, excels at follow-up, and contributes to operational efficiency through strong organizational and communication skills.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Order Processing & Expediting: Prepare, issue, and track purchase orders (POs) for raw materials, hardware, fabrication supplies, tools, and services. Ensure timely updates and follow-up to meet production needs.
• Inventory Coordination: Monitor stock levels and collaborate closely with inventory and warehouse teams to anticipate shortages and prevent production delays.
• Discrepancy Resolution: Reconcile shipping receipts against purchase orders and invoices; research and resolve shortages, damaged goods, or billing errors.
• Vendor Communication & Research: Serve as a key point of contact for vendors. Proactively research and source items (e.g., identify specific hardware from a photo by inquiring with existing vendors or finding new ones). Maintain strong vendor relationships.
• Documentation & Compliance: Maintain accurate records of purchases, invoices, receipts, and contracts. Ensure compliance with company policies and relevant regulations.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Work closely with Production, Pre-Construction, Design, and Installation teams to understand material needs and support project timelines.
• Administrative Support: Handle filing, data entry in purchasing/ERP systems, and other tasks to support the Purchasing Manager.

Qualifications

Education and Experience Required:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years of experience in purchasing, procurement, expediting, or administrative support, ideally in a manufacturing or construction environment.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel) and experience processing POs.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities as a self-starter in a fast-paced setting.

Preferred:

• Experience working with ERP systems (transition experience a plus) or QuickBooks for POs.
• Basic understanding of supply chain logistics and shipping terminology.
• Experience in the signage, architectural, metal fabrication, or construction industry.
• Bilingual Spanish/English is a plus for vendor communications.

Physical Requirements

• Remaining in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for prolonged periods in an office or manufacturing environment.
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers to operate computers and office equipment.
• Occasional movement through the production floor and ability to lift or move items up to 25 lbs. occasionally.
• The ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Aflac supplemental plans (Disability, Accident, Cancer, Hospital coverage)
• Opportunity to work with a growing team in a creative, entrepreneurial environment