Job Title: Purchasing Specialist Job Description As a Purchasing Specialist, you will be responsible for researching, comparing, and selecting the most suitable suppliers based on factors such as price, quality, and availability. You will negotiate pricing and delivery terms with vendors, prepare and process purchase orders, track shipments, and resolve any issues with vendors. Additionally, you will maintain detailed records of order history, including quotes and communications with vendors. You will also be tasked with analyzing price proposals and financial reports to make cost-effective procurement decisions while building and maintaining positive, long-term supplier relationships. Ensuring all procurement activities comply with applicable laws, regulations, and company policies is also a key aspect of this role. Responsibilities + Research, compare, and select suppliers based on price, quality, and availability. + Negotiate pricing and delivery terms with vendors. + Prepare and process purchase orders, track shipments, and resolve vendor issues. + Maintain detailed records of order history, including quotes and vendor communications. + Timely process material RMA to vendors. + Analyze price proposals and financial reports for cost-effective decision-making. + Build and maintain positive, long-term supplier relationships. + Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and company policies in procurement activities. Essential Skills + 3+ years of experience in procurement, preferably in manufacturing, heavy electronics, or steel. + Attention to detail and strong organizational skills. + Strong analytical and negotiation skills. + Excellent communication and business relations skills. + Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with ERP systems. + Team-oriented with strong interpersonal skills. + Logistical and accounting acumen. Additional Skills & Qualifications + Bachelor's degree preferred. + Purchasing certifications are a plus but not required. + Experience with past vendors in the industry is an asset. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Richmond, VA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $60000.00 - $70000.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Richmond,VA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Feb 27, 2026. About Aston Carter: Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® double diamond winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com (%20astoncarteraccommodation@astoncarter.com) for other accommodation options.