Posted Aug 14, 2026

Short-term Purchasing Agent - Buyer

Apply Now
OVERVIEW OF ATHENA ATHENA Consulting is an award-winning staffing firm serving state and local governments. Our mission is to make lives better! We make our Clients' Lives Easier by engaging and supporting our clients and partnering with them to be the most knowledgeable staffing partner. We make our Employees' Lives Better by identifying and cultivating their talents and matching these talents with our customers' needs. ATHENA places a high value on customer service, accountability and getting the job done. POSITION SUMMARY We are currently recruiting a Purchasing Agent/Buyer . This full-time, remote position pays $26.45 an hour and services offices between Brooklyn and the South Bronx, NY. Candidates must be local to this area. This is a short- term position covering for leave, about 3-4 month tenure. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. • Sourcing: Identify and evaluate suppliers, manufacturers, and vendors to ensure the best quality and cost-effectiveness of goods and services. • Vendor Relationships: Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, negotiating terms, pricing, and delivery schedules. • Purchase Orders: Prepare and process purchase orders, ensuring accuracy and compliance with program regulations and budget constraints. • Inventory Management: Monitor inventory levels, track usage, and reorder supplies as needed to avoid disruptions in program operations. • Budget Oversight: Collaborate with program management to develop and manage procurement budgets, making recommendations for cost savings and efficiencies. • Quality Control: Ensure that all purchased items meet the required quality standards and specifications. • Contract Compliance: Ensure compliance with contract terms, procurement regulations, and program guidelines. • Documentation: Maintain accurate records of purchasing transactions, receipts, and supplier communications. • Reporting: Generate reports on purchasing activities, expenses, and trends to support decision-making. • Problem Solving: Address any issues related to purchasing, such as supply shortages, delivery delays, or quality concerns. • Team Collaboration: Collaborate with program staff to understand their procurement needs and provide timely solutions. • Sustainability: Promote sustainable and environmentally friendly purchasing practices whenever possible. • Additional duties as assigned. Required Skills/Abilities • Strong negotiation and communication skills. • Proficiency in procurement software, Microsoft Office Suite, and data analysis. • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. • Ability to work independently; must be self-motivated. • Excellent verbal, written, and listening communication skills. • Understanding of procurement regulations, contract management, and budgeting. • Ability to understand and adhere to the duties, methods, and procedures required by the position. • Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. • Familiarity with educational institutions or vocational training programs a plus. Education and Experience • Bachelor's degree or commensurate experience in Business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field, required. • Minimum of two years of experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management, required. Physical Requirements • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. • Standard hours of work Monday through Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, however evening and weekend hours will be required. • Hybrid work arrangement with on-site presence between Brooklyn and the South Bronx, NY. • Travel may be required. Successful ATHENA Employees Will Display the Following Characteristics • You strive to be the best in your field currently and in the future. • You like to make your employer look good. • You find solutions, where others only see problems. • You are proactive, you make and meet commitments, and you perform your duties exceedingly well. • You are aware of the employer's needs at all times and are well-versed in what you personally and ATHENA can offer them as a whole. • You have the ability to work with diverse, integrated, deliverable-driven teams to accomplish the larger mission. The Benefits of Working for ATHENA Include • Support from a team of professionals committed to making your life better. • Medical, dental and vision insurance. • Health Savings Account • Pet insurance. • 401k with a generous employer match. • ATHENA paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance for employee. • Additional Voluntary Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance for employee, spouses, and children. • Short- and Long-Term Disability. • Employee Assistance Program (EAP). • Easy to use employee self-serve HR portal. • Sick leave varies – be sure to inquire with your Recruiter. The statements in this Job Posting are intended to describe the general nature and minimum level of work required. The content should not be construed as a complete list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required to meet the criteria for this position. Upon request, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Application for employment is not intended to and does not create a contract or offer of employment and if hired, employment with the company is on an at-will basis and could be terminated at the will of either party. ATHENA Consulting LLC does not discriminate in hiring based on federally protected classifications to include but not limited to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, marital status or other characteristics protected by law. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.