TITLE: Buyer DIVISION: Purchasing
REPORTS TO: Purchasing Manager FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Exempt/Salary


Gold Star Foods is the leading food distributor to K-12 schools in the United States. We are a company devoted to providing our customers with incredible customer service. We know that it is our teammates who make the difference! Join our team and find out what it is like to work somewhere where you enjoy getting up for work every day!
POSITION OVERVIEW:
The Buyer, under the direction of the Purchasing Manager, plays a critical role in ensuring that the Organization’s purchasing needs are met efficiently and cost-effectively. They must be able to communicate effectively with vendors, suppliers, and internal teams, and pricing, and analyze purchasing data to optimize purchasing processes.


PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Research and evaluate vendors and suppliers based on price, quality, availability, reliability, possible subs and technical support.
• Ensure timely delivery of goods and services to meet company needs.
• Collaborate with internal teams such as sales, category management, operations, and logistics to determine purchasing needs and requirements.
• Develop and implement purchasing strategies that align with the company’s business goals and operational needs
• Participate in vendor performance meetings with Category Management.
• Monitor and maintain inventory levels to avoid stockouts and overstocking.
• Mitigate potential supply chain disruptions, including diversifying alternative solutions.
• Evaluate market trends and pricing to ensure competitive pricing and sourcing of products and services.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and vendors.
• Maintain accurate records of purchases, pricing, and delivery dates.
• Analyze purchasing data to identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize purchasing processes.
• Follow and implement procurement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with regulations and company policies.
• Under the direction of the Purchasing Manage, Supervisor, and Senior Buyer, will receive procurement objectives, including assigning tasks, and setting goals.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED SKILLS:

• Supplier relationship management
• Inventory Management
• Procurement Ethics
• Strong on negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and purchasing software systems.
• Knowledge of procurement regulations and procedures
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

EDUCATION/EXPIERENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree/associate’s degree in business, supply chain management, or related field is a plus but not a requirement or 2-4 years of experience in procurement, purchasing role, or related field.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Professional office environment. Primary office environment is ambient room temperatures, lighting and traditional office equipment as found in a typical office environment.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Individuals may need to sit or stand as needed. May require walking primarily on a level surface for periods throughout the day. Reaching above shoulder heights, below the waist, or lifting as required to file documents or store materials throughout the workday. Proper lifting techniques are required May include lifting up to 25 pounds on occasion.
EOE M/W/Vet/Disabled
The above duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently. This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements as the employee may be required to perform any other duties as assigned. In the event of an absence where the teammate cannot perform these duties, the Manager will determine who shall perform these duties.
Affirmative Action Statement:
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, and consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.