Purchasing Agent

Brazeau County is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Purchasing Agent - Inventory Control person to join our Public Works team.

If you have experience as a Journeyperson Parts Technician or have experience in Supply Chain Management, this may be the right opportunity for you We're looking for someone who enjoys working in a team environment and has a high attention to detail.

This position is responsible for procuring, organizing, and maintaining the inventory of supplies materials, and small equipment for Brazeau County. This includes coordinating contracted services, managing inventory control, and supporting the preventative maintenance program for the County's fleet of equipment and vehicles.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Source and negotiate the purchase of materials, small equipment and supplies from vendors.
• Monitor cost control of the equipment pool accounting system.
• Provide purchasing recommendations to the Supervisor to support budget preparation and cost efficiencies.
• Evaluate vendor quotes, audits, and contracted services.
• Request, revise and receive orders within the County's purchasing system.
• Track and trace inbound orders to ensure timely delivery and mitigate issues.
• Obtain, verify, and organize all required vendor documents.
• Coordinate reverse logistics, including the return of damaged or incorrect items.
• Maintain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) inventory for all employees, in collaboration with the Safety Coordinator, to meet the County's Health and Safety Program requirements.
• Coordinate the disposal of surplus materials (such as culvert pipes and grader blades).
• Issue and process purchase orders for department staff in compliance with the County's purchasing policy. Update inventory records to ensure accurate inventory reconciliation.
• Assist the Fleet Supervisor and Lead Mechanic with scheduling external contracted services such as welding, repairs, and equipment rentals.
• Assist the Fleet Supervisor with the immediate and long-term work schedule of the shop, coordinating the needs and priorities of various maintenance programs.
• Prepares various cost tracking reports and research repair procedures and technical specifications to assist mechanics and welder as required.
• Organize and maintain equipment filing system, Parts Room, and inventory.
• Operates wheel loader with forklift attachment for receiving and stocking freight and parts.
• Work in compliance with the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Act, regulations and codes, and actively participate in the County's Safety Program.
• Undertakes any other reasonable duty, commensurate with the classification and responsibility of the position, across the department to meet service priorities and business continuity requirements.
• May be required in the event of a municipal emergency to support the emergency operations centre and incident action/recovery plan.

COMPETENCIES

Education and Training:

• A Journeyman Parts Technician or related trade certification is desired, or a post-secondary education in Purchasing, Supply Chain Management, or Business Administration is an asset.
• A combination of education and experience may be considered.

Licenses and Certifications 

• A valid Class 5 Driver's License is required.
• A satisfactory Commercial Driver's Abstract is required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• A minimum three years related work experience, municipal or public-sector purchasing experience is an asset.
• A minimum of three years related work experience of inventory control, including counting, reconciliation, and parts room organization is required.
• Knowledge of purchasing and procurement principles, including sourcing, quotation evaluation, and vendor management.
• Be willing to obtain further training and knowledge related to public-sector purchasing and fleet, equipment, and parts terminology related to public works operations.
• Strong organizational and inventory management skills, with the ability to maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records.
• Effective vendor communication and negotiation skills to support timely procurement and cost efficiency.
• Proficient computer skills, including the use of purchasing systems, inventory software, and spreadsheets.
• Knowledge and proficiency of Office 365 applications, specifically Outlook and Excel for tracking, reporting, and reconciliation is required.
• Effective communication skills to work collaboratively with supervisors, mechanics, vendors, and internal departments.
• Ability to analyze quotes, invoices, and inventory data to identify discrepancies and cost‑saving opportunities.
• Time‑management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Attention to detail and accuracy when processing orders, tracking inventory, and maintaining records.
• Ability to follow established policies, procedures, and safety requirements.
• Self-motivated, strong work ethic and the ability to work with minimal supervision in a team environment.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs throughout the workday.
• Must be comfortable working in a shop environment and exposed to noise and dust.

Compensation Classification: 

• Union: Full-time, Permanent, 40 hours per week
• Non-supervisory
• Rate is $35.60 to $40.86 per hour
• Hours of work per Collective Agreement: Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm
• Eligible for benefits and pension after the three month waiting period

HOW TO APPLY:

• Applicants may submit with their cover letter and resume on our website at

Thank you in advance to all applicants, only those who are shortlisted will be contacted.

Location

Drayton Valley, Alberta

Department

Public Works

Employment Type

Full-Time Union

Minimum Experience

Experienced

Compensation

$ $40.86 per hour