Junior Buyer

Kevin's Natural Foods•Stockton, CA

About The Position

The Junior Buyer is responsible for ensuring the continuous supply of raw materials and packaging required to support manufacturing operations. This role manages day to day procurement activities, maintains optimal inventory levels, develops supplier relationships, and supports cost reduction initiatives while ensuring uninterrupted production. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast paced manufacturing environment and demonstrates strong organizational, analytical, and negotiation skills. This individual is dependable, organized, collaborative, and committed to continuous improvement and long term professional growth.

Requirements

One to three years of progressive procurement or strategic sourcing experience, preferably in food manufacturing.
Experience procurement of food commodities including proteins, produce, specialty ingredients, packaging, and related supplies.
Strong negotiation and supplier relationship management skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Excel with strong analytical capabilities.
SAP experience preferred.
Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills.
Strong mathematical and analytical skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proven ability to collaborate across functional teams and deliver results with urgency.
Demonstrated initiative, accountability, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Execute procurement strategies that support company goals and operational requirements.
Source raw materials, ingredients, packaging, and related supplies to ensure uninterrupted production.
Negotiate pricing, terms, and service agreements with suppliers to achieve cost savings and favorable commercial terms.
Support Request for Proposal (RFP) activities for new and existing suppliers.
Build and maintain productive relationships with suppliers while monitoring supplier performance.
Maintain appropriate inventory levels to support production while minimizing excess inventory and working capital.
Track procurement metrics, including inventory performance, purchase price variance (PPV), and cost savings.
Prepare procurement reports, analyses, and recommendations to support informed business decisions.
Develop and maintain supplier scorecards and performance metrics.
Identify supply chain challenges and implement timely solutions.
Support production schedules by expediting materials when necessary.
Coordinate material readiness for new product launches, including initial inventory planning and replenishment strategies.
Monitor commodity markets and supplier trends to anticipate potential risks and opportunities.
Collaborate with Operations, Planning, Quality, Research and Development (R&D), Finance, and Logistics to support business objectives.
Maintain supplier contracts and purchasing documentation.
Ensure customer orders are fulfilled by securing required ingredients and packaging materials.
Perform other duties as assigned.