Purchasing Specialist

Red River Commodities•Fargo, ND

28d

About The Position

The Purchasing Specialist role is critical to ensuring cost-effective, timely, and sustainable ingredient and packaging solutions that support production schedules and meet quality standards. The ideal candidate will have strong negotiation skills, supply chain knowledge, and a passion for optimizing procurement processes.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field preferred but not required.
3+ years of experience in procurement or supply chain (packaging or food industry preferred).
Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis; ERP systems experience preferred.
Excellent attention to detail, organization, and communication skills.
Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Responsibilities

Identify, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers of ingredients and packaging materials (e.g., raw ingredients, bags, boxes, labels, pallets).
Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure competitive pricing and reliable supply.
Monitor market trends, material availability, and supplier diversification to anticipate changes and mitigate risks.
Maintain optimal inventory levels for ingredients and packaging materials to ensure uninterrupted production, while minimizing excess stock and consistently achieving on‑time, in‑full execution.
Track and report on packaging and ingredient spending, cost savings, and supplier performance.
Collaborate with finance and operations to align procurement with budgeted and forecast targets.
Ensure all packaging and ingredient materials meet company specifications, food safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
Coordinate with quality assurance and production teams to resolve packaging and ingredient-related issues.
Support sustainability initiatives by sourcing eco-friendly and recyclable ingredients and packaging options while upholding margin targets.
Maintain accurate records of purchase orders, supplier contracts, and inventory transactions.
Utilize ERP systems to manage procurement workflows and inventory tracking.
Prepare reports and presentations on procurement performance and opportunities.