Overview

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionPosition Summary The Purchasing Assistant - R&D & Production Support supports Super Color Digital's ongoing research and development efforts while providing day-to-day purchasing and Purchase Order support.Research & Development is a primary function of this position. The Purchasing Assistant will actively research new materials, products, vendors, equipment, and production solutions for our large-format printing and manufacturing operations. This includes obtaining samples and technical information, coordinating product testing with Production teams, documenting results, comparing materials, and helping identify solutions that improve quality, efficiency, availability, capabilities, and cost.The position works closely with vendors and internal departments to evaluate substrates, inks, adhesives, laminates, tapes, fabrication materials, display components, finishing products, and other materials used throughout production.In addition to R&D responsibilities, this position supports the purchasing process by creating Purchase Orders, obtaining vendor quotes, tracking orders and deliveries, maintaining purchasing records, and communicating with vendors regarding pricing and availability.The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, curious, and comfortable working in both an administrative and hands-on production environment. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Research & Development - Primary Function Research new materials, products, equipment, vendors, and production solutions for large-format printing, finishing, fabrication, signage, and display applications.Research and evaluate rigid and flexible substrates used in large-format print production.Evaluate inks, coatings, adhesives, tapes, laminates, mounting materials, finishing products, and fabrication materials.Research materials and components used for displays, signage, LED applications, experiential graphics, and custom fabrication projects.Contact vendors to obtain samples, technical specifications, pricing, lead times, and product availability.Coordinate testing of new materials and products on company production equipment.Work directly with Printing, Cutting, Finishing, Fabrication, Prepress, and other Production departments during product testing.Document testing results, including print quality, color performance, adhesion, durability, finishing compatibility, fabrication requirements, and overall production performance.Compare potential products against existing materials based on quality, performance, cost, availability, and ease of production.Research alternative products and vendors when existing materials are discontinued, unavailable, experiencing extended lead times, or have significant price increases.Help identify cost-saving opportunities without negatively impacting product quality or production performance.Maintain organized records of tested and approved materials, specifications, vendor information, pricing, samples, and test results.Follow R&D projects from the initial request through research, sampling, testing, approval, purchasing, and implementation.Assist Production teams with researching solutions to recurring material, equipment, or manufacturing challenges.Stay informed about new products, materials, technologies, equipment, and production methods within the large-format printing and graphics industry. Purchasing & Purchase Order Support Create and process Purchase Orders for materials, supplies, samples, equipment, and other approved purchases.Obtain vendor quotes and compare pricing, availability, lead times, and product specifications.Verify vendor pricing, quantities, SKUs/item numbers, shipping information, and other PO details for accuracy.Submit Purchase Orders to vendors and confirm order acceptance.Track open Purchase Orders and follow up with vendors regarding expected delivery dates.Communicate with vendors regarding backorders, shortages, substitutions, price changes, and delivery delays.Maintai