PURCHASING MANAGER - K-12 Schools

Compass Group•Paterson, NJ

4d•$90,000 - $100,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Purchasing Manager is responsible for the daily purchasing and inventory functions supporting a large USDA K-12 food service account. This role ensures the timely procurement of food, beverage, and related products while maintaining accurate inventory levels and supporting efficient operations. The Purchasing Manager works closely with vendors, operations teams, and management to ensure products are ordered, received, and tracked accurately while meeting company, USDA, and client requirements. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple purchasing activities in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

Minimum of three years of purchasing, inventory control, food service, or related experience.
Working knowledge of purchasing procedures and inventory management practices.
Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office, especially Excel, as well as purchasing and inventory management systems.
Experience working with inventory reporting and data analysis.
Strong attention to detail with accurate data entry and recordkeeping skills.
Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree preferred; equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
Experience purchasing food, beverage, and printing products preferred.
Knowledge of USDA school nutrition programs and food service operations strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Process and manage purchase orders for food, beverage, printing, and other operational supplies.
Communicate with vendors, operations teams, and management to ensure products are ordered according to specifications and operational needs.
Verify weekly inventory counts for accuracy and complete inventory submissions in a timely manner.
Monitor inventory levels and place orders to maintain adequate stock while minimizing shortages and overages.
Negotiate pricing and coordinate product deliveries with suppliers.
Review shipments and receiving documentation to ensure products received match purchase orders and quality standards.
Resolve discrepancies involving orders, deliveries, invoices, or inventory records.
Compile and maintain monthly purchasing, inventory, and operational reports.
Utilize Excel, Visual Basic, and inventory management systems to track purchasing activity and inventory performance.
Ensure compliance with company policies, contract requirements, and USDA school nutrition purchasing guidelines.
Maintain accurate purchasing records and supporting documentation.