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Purchasing Inventory Manager Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN

Valbruna

Inventory Administrator

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

Maintains Purchase Order information for all VSSI and external suppliers. * Ensures the smooth movement of materials in the company's inventory management system (MCMS), including inventory and the ...

Press-Seal Corporation

Buyer II

Fort Wayne, IN

Data Analysis & Inventory Management Analyze purchasing, inventory, and supplier performance data to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities. Monitor inventory levels, safety stock ...

Press Seal Corporation

Buyer II

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

Data Analysis & Inventory Management • Analyze purchasing, inventory, and supplier performance data to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities. • Monitor inventory levels, safety ...

Press-Seal Corporation

Buyer II

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

Data Analysis & Inventory Management * Analyze purchasing, inventory, and supplier performance data to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities. * Monitor inventory levels, safety stock ...

Prestige Staffing Services

Materials Manager

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$125K - $135K/yr

Management of material planning, material control, scheduling, and purchasing functions including ... Develops and implements visual inventory management systems on the production floor. * Integration ...

Prestige Staffing Services

Be Seen First

Materials Manager - Direct Hire

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$125K - $135K/yr

Management of material planning, material control, scheduling, and purchasing functions including ... Develops and implements visual inventory management systems on the production floor. * Integration ...

Midway Products Group

Materials Manager

Hudson, IN

Under general supervision of the Plant Manager, is responsible for the overall control and movement ... Directs and administers purchasing, production scheduling, inventory control, warehousing sales ...

Midway Products Group

Materials Manager

Hudson, IN · On-site

Under general supervision of the Plant Manager, is responsible for the overall control and movement ... Directs and administers purchasing, production scheduling, inventory control, warehousing sales ...

WEG Electric Corp

Materials Clerk

Bluffton, IN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

... inventory control, stock adjustments, and create purchase requisitions for every day materials. Duties and Responsibilities Manage production orders reports Print production orders; Separate ...

WEG Electric Corp

Materials Clerk

Bluffton, IN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

... inventory control, stock adjustments, and create purchase requisitions for every day materials. Duties and Responsibilities • Manage production orders reports • Print production orders; • ...

WEG Electric Corp

Materials Clerk

Bluffton, IN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

... in inventory control, stock adjustments, and create purchase requisitions for every day materials. Duties and Responsibilities · Manage production orders reports · Print production orders; · ...

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All JobsPurchasing Inventory JobsPurchasing Inventory Manager JobsPurchasing Inventory Manager Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN

Purchasing Inventory Manager information

See Fort Wayne, IN salary details

$40K

$83.1K

$125.8K

How much do purchasing inventory manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for purchasing inventory manager in Fort Wayne, IN is $83,078.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $98,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the 4 types of inventory management?

The four main types of inventory management are just-in-time (JIT), economic order quantity (EOQ), ABC analysis, and perpetual inventory systems. These methods help purchasing inventory managers optimize stock levels, reduce costs, and improve supply chain efficiency by tracking inventory in real-time or categorizing items based on value and usage. Choosing the right approach depends on the company's size, industry, and inventory complexity.

What is an inventory management salary?

The salary for an Inventory Management role typically ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Professionals often require skills in inventory software, data analysis, and supply chain processes to succeed in this position.

What are some common challenges Purchasing Inventory Managers face when balancing stock levels and budget constraints?

Purchasing Inventory Managers often need to maintain optimal inventory levels to meet demand without overstocking, which can tie up capital and increase holding costs. A key challenge is accurately forecasting demand and adjusting orders accordingly, especially when market trends or supplier lead times shift unexpectedly. The role requires close collaboration with suppliers, sales teams, and finance to ensure inventory targets align with both operational needs and budget limitations, making effective communication and adaptability essential for success.

What does a purchasing inventory manager do?

A purchasing inventory manager oversees the procurement of goods and materials, manages inventory levels, and ensures timely stock replenishment to meet company needs. They analyze supplier options, negotiate contracts, and use inventory management software to optimize stock control and reduce costs.

What is the difference between Purchasing Inventory Manager vs Purchasing Coordinator?

AspectPurchasing Inventory ManagerPurchasing Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in supply chain, business, or related field; certifications like CPSM are commonOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree; some roles prefer certifications like CPSM or APICS
Work EnvironmentSupervises inventory and purchasing teams, manages procurement strategies, and oversees stock levelsSupports purchasing activities, coordinates orders, and communicates with suppliers and internal teams
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, retail, and logistics industriesCommon in retail, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors

The Purchasing Inventory Manager focuses on strategic procurement, inventory control, and team management, while the Purchasing Coordinator handles day-to-day order processing and supplier communication. Both roles are essential in supply chain operations but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Purchasing Inventory Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Purchasing Inventory Manager, you need expertise in supply chain management, inventory control, and procurement processes, often supported by a relevant bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems like SAP or Oracle, as well as certifications such as Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), is highly beneficial. Strong negotiation skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure cost-effective purchasing, optimal inventory levels, and smooth operations across the organization.

What is the highest paid job in supply chain?

In the supply chain field, supply chain director or vice president roles tend to be the highest paid, often earning six-figure salaries due to their strategic responsibilities and leadership requirements. These positions typically require extensive experience, strong analytical skills, and knowledge of supply chain management tools and systems.
What are popular job titles related to Purchasing Inventory Manager jobs in Fort Wayne, IN? For Purchasing Inventory Manager jobs in Fort Wayne, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Purchasing Inventory Manager jobs in Fort Wayne, IN look for? The top searched job categories for Purchasing Inventory Manager jobs in Fort Wayne, IN are:
What cities near Fort Wayne, IN are hiring for Purchasing Inventory Manager jobs? Cities near Fort Wayne, IN with the most Purchasing Inventory Manager job openings:
Purchasing Inventory Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Purchasing Inventory Manager job openings in Fort Wayne, IN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,078 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Senior Buyer

Wayne Pipe & Supply, Inc.

Fort Wayne, IN

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Position Summary
The Senior Buyer is responsible for managing the complete purchasing process for assigned product lines and vendor partners, ensuring the timely procurement of inventory, direct-order materials, and project-specific purchases while maintaining optimal inventory levels, maximizing supplier performance, and supporting company profitability.
Each Senior Buyer maintains equal authority and responsibility within the Purchasing Department and is assigned specific manufacturers, vendors, and product categories. Senior Buyers are responsible for the day-to-day operational relationship with assigned suppliers, purchasing execution, forecasting, inventory optimization, replenishment planning, and continuous improvement initiatives.
The Senior Buyer works closely with the Director of Operations, Sales, Warehouse, Accounting, Branch Managers, and Operations Leadership to ensure exceptional customer service, efficient inventory management, and alignment with Wayne Pipe amp; Supply's operational and financial objectives.
The Director of Operations retains responsibility for strategic supplier partnerships, contract negotiations, rebate programs, preferred supplier agreements, department budgeting, and overall purchasing strategy.
Essential Job Functions
Purchasing and Inventory Management
  • Manage replenishment purchasing for assigned product lines using Prophet 21 recommendations, inventory analysis, customer demand, supplier lead times, and established purchasing strategies.
  • Purchase stock, direct-order, emergency, and project-related materials while ensuring purchase orders are accurate and released promptly.
  • Monitor inventory availability, shortages, fill rates, turns, aging, excess inventory, dead stock, and overall inventory investment.
  • Maintain and recommend adjustments to Min/Max levels, purchasing parameters, replenishment quantities, and inventory forecasts.
  • Identify inventory-balancing opportunities, including transfers between branch locations.
  • Evaluate alternate suppliers, manufacturers, and product substitutions to reduce supply disruptions and meet customer commitments.
  • Maintain accurate and complete purchasing records in Prophet 21.
Forecasting and Demand Planning
  • Analyze historical sales, purchasing trends, customer buying patterns, seasonal fluctuations, and business conditions to forecast inventory requirements.
  • Monitor forecast accuracy and adjust purchasing quantities and inventory investment recommendations accordingly.
  • Identify supply chain risks and support annual inventory-planning initiatives.
  • Recommend strategies to improve inventory availability while reducing excess and obsolete inventory.
Supplier Coordination
  • Serve as the primary day-to-day operational contact for assigned suppliers and maintain productive working relationships.
  • Monitor supplier performance, responsiveness, and lead times and assist with supplier performance reviews and scorecards.
  • Resolve routine supplier, availability, substitution, and delivery issues.
  • Provide supplier performance feedback and escalate pricing, contracts, rebates, and strategic supplier matters to the Director of Operations.
Project and Direct-Order Purchasing
  • Coordinate purchasing activities, release schedules, material availability, and milestones for customer projects and direct orders.
  • Partner with Sales to understand project requirements, customer schedules, and delivery commitments.
  • Identify and resolve purchasing or supply issues that could affect project timelines or customer deliveries.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Collaborate with Sales, Warehouse Operations, Accounting, Branch Managers, and the Director of Operations to address customer demand, inventory planning, material availability, and purchasing discrepancies.
  • Work closely with the Buyer, Purchasing Assistant/Expeditor, and RMA Specialist to support effective department operations.
  • Participate in cross-functional initiatives that improve purchasing, inventory management, and customer service.
Continuous Improvement and Reporting
  • Analyze purchasing and inventory performance, including inventory investment, fill rates, turns, forecasting accuracy, supplier performance, and departmental KPIs.
  • Identify cost-saving, automation, process-improvement, and inventory-optimization opportunities.
  • Support Prophet 21 enhancements, purchasing analytics, and department reporting.
  • Participate in the development and revision of purchasing policies, procedures, and SOPs.
  • Promote purchasing accuracy, accountability, consistency, and departmental best practices.
Technical Leadership
Although this position does not have direct supervisory responsibility, the Senior Buyer provides technical leadership by:
  • Serving as the subject-matter expert for assigned product and supplier lines.
  • Assisting with the training and onboarding of purchasing team members.
  • Providing guidance and support to the Buyer and Purchasing Assistant/Expeditor.
  • Sharing purchasing knowledge, tools, and best practices across the department.
  • Supporting departmental initiatives and encouraging collaboration and accountability.
  • Leading by example through professionalism, integrity, and reliability.
Key Responsibilities by Frequency
Daily
  • Execute stock replenishment, direct-order, project, and emergency purchasing.
  • Review purchasing recommendations, exceptions, inventory availability, shortages, fill rates, and customer commitments.
  • Monitor supplier lead times and respond to vendor communications.
  • Coordinate with Sales and resolve routine supplier or purchasing issues.
  • Review inventory-transfer and alternate-sourcing opportunities.
Weekly
  • Review inventory turns, dead stock, surplus inventory, fill-rate exceptions, and inventory-balancing opportunities.
  • Analyze purchasing trends, forecast accuracy, supplier performance, and alternate sourcing options.
  • Meet with the Director of Operations regarding purchasing priorities, risks, and performance.
  • Provide technical assistance to other purchasing team members.
Monthly
  • Complete comprehensive inventory, forecasting, and inventory-investment reviews.
  • Analyze excess and obsolete inventory and recommend corrective action.
  • Review supplier scorecards and departmental KPIs.
  • Recommend purchasing-parameter and inventory-investment adjustments.
  • Present cost-saving, process-improvement, and reporting opportunities.
Decision-Making Authority
The Senior Buyer is authorized to:
  • Execute purchasing decisions within approved budgets, policies, and purchasing strategies.
  • Prioritize purchasing activities for assigned product and supplier lines.
  • Adjust replenishment quantities based on demand and inventory requirements.
  • Resolve routine supplier, availability, and purchasing issues.
  • Recommend alternate suppliers, manufacturers, product substitutions, and branch inventory transfers.
  • Recommend changes to purchasing parameters and inventory-investment levels.
  • Provide technical direction to purchasing team members.
  • Escalate pricing, contractual, rebate, supplier-strategy, and other significant decisions to the Director of Operations.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Advanced knowledge of purchasing, inventory management, forecasting, and demand planning.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to analyze purchasing, inventory, forecasting, and supplier-performance reports.
  • Ability to manage competing demands and respond effectively to changing priorities.
  • Strong written and verbal communication and customer-service skills.
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel proficiency and working knowledge of Prophet 21.
  • Ability to train, mentor, and provide technical guidance to others.
  • Commitment to accuracy, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Education and Experience
Required
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • At least five years of purchasing experience.
  • Experience using an ERP purchasing system.
  • Strong inventory-management background.
Preferred
  • Experience in industrial distribution or the PVF industry.
  • APICS certification or comparable professional training.
  • Experience with forecasting, inventory optimization, or project purchasing.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to perform prolonged periods of seated computer work.
  • Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to safely access warehouse and operational areas.
  • Ability to travel occasionally between branch locations.

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