Buyer (On-Site)

Job Details: Job Location: 7500 - Skokie, IL, Salary Range: $76000.00 - $80000.00Salary, The Buyer is responsible for supporting the timely procurement of commodities, raw materials, packaging, and other essential supplies required for production and operations. This role focuses on ensuring materials are purchased at competitive costs while meeting quality, quantity, and delivery requirements. The Buyer works closely with internal departments and suppliers to help maintain an efficient and reliable supply chain.

This position requires strong communication and coordination with teams including Sales, Planning and Scheduling, R&D, Warehouse, Distribution, Logistics, and Production. The Buyer will assist in maintaining supplier relationships, supporting new product launches, and helping identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Manage material requirements through MRP to help identify shortages and maintain inventory levels. 
Issue purchase orders and coordinate deliveries to support production schedules. 
Monitor inventory levels for packaging, raw materials, and coatings to minimize stockouts and excess inventory. 
Assist with tracking and resolving return-to-vendor (RTV) issues for defective materials. 
Maintain positive working relationships with suppliers to support quality, service, and delivery expectations. 
Support sourcing activities for new product development in coordination with customers and suppliers. 
Participate in supplier and plant visits to support quality and supply continuity initiatives. 
Attend weekly commercialization meetings and customer calls as needed. 
Collaborate with Sales, R&D, Planning, and Production teams to support project and material timelines. 
Assist Finance with monthly purchase price variance (PPV) reporting and quarterly pricing updates. 
Support cost savings initiatives while maintaining quality and service standards. 
Track purchasing and supplier performance metrics to support continuous improvement efforts. 
Assist in efforts to streamline ordering processes, reduce lead times, and improve supplier performance. 
Attend plant tours to develop knowledge of products, materials, and manufacturing processes related to purchasing responsibilities. 
Support supplier evaluations to help ensure reliable and reputable sources of supply.

Qualifications: KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS 

Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain Management, Operations, or a related field (preferred).
Minimum of 2 years’ experience in purchasing or supply chain management within food environment.
Comprehensive understanding of supply chain processes, logistics, and inventory management.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
Proven negotiation skills to secure favorable terms and maintain supplier relationships.
Strong leadership and interpersonal abilities with the capacity to influence and collaborate across teams.
Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple priorities, adapt to daily changes, and consistently meet commitments.
Proficiency in MRP and ERP systems, with experience in inventory control and materials requirements planning.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
High-level proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; experience with Salesforce, TraceGains, SharePoint, and Outlook.
Advanced mathematical and analytical capabilities.
Strategic thinker with the ability to develop a vision, implement continuous improvement initiatives, and drive efficiencies that reduce cost, minimize risk, and limit downtime.
Ability to analyze process flows, identify root causes of issues, and implement corrective actions and process improvements.
Experience developing and tracking goals and objectives measured by key performance indicators (KPIs).