Description:
Want to be part of a family-owned, award-winning company with an entrepreneurial culture and strong family spirit? We’re looking for a proactive, detail-driven Junior Buyer to join our dynamic food manufacturing team. You’ll be the link between suppliers and our production floor, keeping materials stocked, purchase orders on track, and issues resolved before they become problems.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, or related field preferred; equivalent relevant experience will also be considered.
• 1-3 years of experience in a buyer, planner, or material scheduler role.
• Experience in the food industry is preferred but not required.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel; experience with ERP or supply chain planning software is a plus.
• Strong initiative, analytical thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Exceptional attention to detail and a strong sense of urgency.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and follow-up skills.
• Collaborative and adaptable mindset with the ability to work across multiple departments.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize incoming vs. current tasks
• Bilingual in Spanish preferred but not required.

JOB PURPOSE:

The Junior Buyer is an entry-level position within the Purchasing Department, responsible for ensuring timely material availability to support the company’s production schedule. This role manages inventory levels, coordinates with suppliers, and supports cross-functional departments. The Junior Buyer plays a key role in maintaining supply chain efficiency and supporting food safety and quality initiatives.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Run daily bill of materials (BOM) explosion reports to identify material needs.
• Create purchase orders and manage tracking and expediting to ensure timely delivery and avoid material shortages.
• Monitor inventory levels and purchasing plans for assigned commodities, including warehouse and packaging supplies.
• Work closely with warehouse personnel to resolve inventory discrepancies and collaborate with Production, Customer Service, and Supply Chain teams for resolution.
• Address purchase order, invoice, and receiving discrepancies; process returns and assist with supplier quality issues.
• Communicate with suppliers on corrective actions for non-conforming materials; ensure timely resolution and documentation.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including item specifications, artwork, and Certificates of Analysis (COAs).
• Issue warehouse dispositions for discontinued, obsolete, or distressed inventory.
• Support Accounts Payable with non-inventory purchase orders and invoice resolution.
• Assist in sourcing new materials or alternate suppliers, as needed.
• Participate in special projects and additional tasks as assigned by the Director of Purchasing.
• Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and all Food Safety Quality programs in accordance with the SQF Code.
• Promptly report all food safety and quality concerns to the Quality Department and direct supervisor for immediate corrective action.
• Contribute to achieving key performance indicators (KPIs), including on-time purchase order placement, inventory turns, and supplier OTIF (On-Time-In-Full) performance.
• Perform additional responsibilities as needed.
  Career Development: This position offers a strong foundation for individuals interested in developing a career in procurement or supply chain operations within the food manufacturing industry. With strong performance, the Junior Buyer may grow into other roles over time.
  Requirements: