Sample Coordinator (Temp to Perm)

Kinder's • Walnut Creek, CA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Sample Coordinator serves as the central point of coordination for ingredient sample requests and trial support activities. The role works closely with suppliers, sourcing managers, logistics partners, Product Development, R&D, Procurement, and other internal stakeholders. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, proactive, and able to manage shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.

The coordinator manages ingredient sample requests, supplier communication, shipment tracking, supporting documentation, and delivery to internal stakeholders. The role also supports product innovation and commercialization by helping ensure ingredients and materials are available when needed. For co-manufacturer production trials, the coordinator supports procurement and logistics, purchase orders, shipment tracking, and required documentation.

The position is based in Kinder’s Walnut Creek, California office, with most work taking place in the office and flexibility to work outside the office when needed. The expected pay rate is $40 per hour. The role is described as temporary to permanent.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of experience in supply chain, procurement, product development support, customer service, logistics coordination, or a related operational role.
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Exceptional attention to detail and follow-through.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment with changing priorities.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with suppliers, purchase orders, shipping carriers, or inventory systems.
• Experience in food, beverage, consumer packaged goods (CPG), manufacturing, or related industries.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and manage daily ingredient sample requests, ensuring they are reviewed and actioned in a timely manner.
• Partner with Sourcing Managers to identify approved and preferred suppliers for requested ingredients.
• Coordinate ingredient sample requests with suppliers and communicate about status and delivery timelines.
• Track inbound sample shipments and proactively resolve delivery issues.
• Ensure samples reach the appropriate internal stakeholders and document completed requests accurately.
• Request and collect ingredient documentation, specifications, certifications, and other required compliance materials.
• Serve as a liaison between Product Development, R&D, Procurement, and suppliers to facilitate ingredient sourcing.
• Maintain visibility into open requests and provide status updates to stakeholders.
• Support product innovation and commercialization by ensuring timely availability of ingredients and materials.
• Coordinate ingredient procurement and logistics for co-manufacturer production trials.
• Partner with Sourcing Managers to identify suppliers and secure required trial materials.
• Verify trial quantity requirements and coordinate procurement activities.
• Generate or facilitate purchase orders for trial material acquisition.
• Coordinate shipments with carriers and logistics partners to meet trial deadlines.
• Track deliveries and confirm receipt of materials at manufacturing and testing locations.
• Obtain and distribute ingredient documentation needed for trial execution.
• Maintain accurate records, trackers, and documentation for sample requests and trial support.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, visibility, and communication across the sample coordination workflow.
• Provide ad hoc support for sourcing, procurement, product development, and commercialization initiatives.

Benefits

• Paid time off
• 401k
• Bonus or incentive eligibility
• Equity grants
• Competitive health benefits
• Family-friendly benefits, including parental leave
• Flexibility to work outside the office when needed to support work-life balance and personal commitments

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed