Buyer III

OFD Foods, LLC • Albany, OR

18h • Onsite

About The Position

At Oregon Freeze Dry, innovation isn’t just a buzzword, it’s our foundation. We are a purpose-driven company with six decades of expertise in freeze-drying technology. Best known as the makers of Mountain House© meals, we are experts in advanced lyophilization solutions that can help people live healthier lives. Our headquarters in Albany, Oregon sits at the crossroads of science and nature, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that fuel bold ideas and transformative breakthroughs. We're driven by a commitment to quality, creativity, and continuous improvement, and we're always looking ahead to what's next. We’re proud of our legacy, but our future is even more exciting. If you're passionate and ready to make an impact, Oregon Freeze Dry isn't just a place to work, it's where your adventure begins.

We are looking for a buyer III who will be responsible for managing the sourcing and procurement of raw materials and packaging to ensure uninterrupted operations and support new product commercialization. This role partners with cross-functional teams, including operations, production planning, quality assurance, R&D, engineering and finance to develop cost-effective sourcing strategies, negotiate supplier agreements, and maintain reliable supply while meeting quality, regulatory, and business requirements.

Requirements

• Generally, a minimum of six (6) years of experience in Purchasing, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
• A bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Business, or a related field (preferred).
• Active participation in continuing education and industry networking (e.g., ISM, APICS, or equivalent).
• Strong understanding of inventory management principles and control strategies.
• Solid knowledge of manufacturing processes and operational workflows.
• Demonstrated strong computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and ERP.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate professionally with others, both internal and external.
• Ability to analyze cost, quality, and inventory data to determine areas of opportunity for improvement.
• Skilled in building partnerships, negotiating contracts, and managing supplier performance.
• Ability to manage multiple sourcing initiatives, timelines, and cross functional inputs.
• Comfortable navigating ambiguity and driving continuous improvement in sourcing processes.

Nice To Haves

• ISM CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) or equivalent preferred.

Responsibilities

• Partner with cross-functional teams to support product commercialization through timely and cost-effective sourcing strategies.
• Lead RFQs, RFPs, and award suppliers with contracts.
• Draft, execute, and manage contracts for raw materials and packaging.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, lead times, minimum order quantities, and contractual agreements.
• Works with suppliers to reduce costs and improve supplier reliability.
• Minimizes material shortages while maintaining strategic inventory levels.
• Ensures uninterrupted supply of materials necessary to support production schedules.
• Creates, releases, and manages purchase orders in the ERP system for raw materials, ingredients, packaging, and indirect materials.
• Monitors forecasts for assigned raw materials and packaging; work with Production Planning to manage changing demand requirements.
• Actively participates in new product introduction projects and meets commitments to achieve commercialization success criteria.
• Coordinates with Quality Assurance on supplier approvals, specifications, and corrective actions.
• Addresses supplier performance with proactive communication, corrective action plans, and resolution/remedy to supplier issues.
• Conduct ongoing market research to monitor industry trends, pricing, and supplier developments.
• Collaborate with R&D and Engineering to evaluate and qualify new materials and packaging technologies.
• Represent the company at trade shows, supplier meetings, and industry events to expand sourcing opportunities and strengthen supplier relationships.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives using change management tools and methodologies.
• Participate in weekly team meetings and contribute to issue resolution and dashboard reporting.
• Engage in professional development through continuing education and industry networking (e.g., ISM, APICS).
• Ensure compliance with SQF, FDA, and USDA regulations.

Benefits

• Customize your healthcare coverage: including medical, dental, and vision options to fit your needs.
• Boost your savings: Choose an FSA or HSA for extra flexibility.
• Plan for your future: enroll into our 401(k) with employer match and immediate vesting.
• Peace of mind: Life and disability insurance to keep you and your loved ones protected.
• Furry friends: Pet insurance for your four-legged family members.
• Recharge & Refresh: Enjoy paid company holidays, PTO and sick time
• Give back: join us in making a difference with community support opportunities.
• Score savings: Unlock exclusive employee discounts and special savings on Mountain House product.
• Spread the word: Earn bonuses for referring awesome new team members.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level