Buyer - Berkeley, IL

SUMMARY The Buyer is responsible for purchasing and managing the raw materials required to support uninterrupted production at the Berkeley facility. This position uses ERP planning outputs, production schedules, inventory levels, supplier lead times, pricing, minimum-order requirements, and capacity constraints to make timely purchasing decisions. The Buyer works closely with Planning, Operations, Nutrition, Procurement, and suppliers to prevent shortages, resolve supply-chain disruptions, manage substitutions and item transitions, and support supplier qualification and new product sourcing. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND DUTIES: Purchasing and Production Support Orders the raw materials required for plant operations, considering supplier minimums, lead times, capacity, contract pricing, and inbound timing. Monitor Sage X3 ERP planning outputs, including MRP and MPS requirements, to determine order quantities and delivery timing needed to support the master production schedule. Partners with Planning and Operations to assess production needs, identify missing materials, and prevent production delays. Inventory and Item Management Manage site inventory through purchasing decisions, item-transition planning, approved substitutions, and participation in the menu-development process. Identifies excess inventory, obsolete materials, discontinued items, and transition risks and works cross-functionally to develop appropriate usage or disposition plans. Collaborates with Nutrition and Operations on approved substitute items and maintains the substitution tracker. Supplier and Supply-Chain Coordination Maintains frequent, proactive communication with suppliers regarding purchase-order status, delivery timing, shortages, delays, and other supply risks. Works with alternate suppliers and sources to resolve disruptions and fulfill production requirements when shortages, transportation issues, or other supply-chain constraints arise. Generates credit reports and follows up with vendors regarding credits owed to Whitsons. Supplier Qualification and Sourcing Supports the maintenance and management of vendor compliance documentation associated with the Supplier Qualification and Approval process. Assists with sourcing and evaluating new suppliers and products for new business opportunities and operational requirements. Coordinates with Procurement, Nutrition, Operations, and other stakeholders to confirm product suitability, supplier readiness, and continuity of supply. This role offers a salary range of $70,000 – $75,000 annually, based on skills, experience, and location. Employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, and time off Requirements: REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND COMPETENCIES: Education Bachelor's degree preferred Experience Three or more years of buying or similar supply chain experience preferred. Certifications HACCP or ServSafe certification is a plus. ASCM certification is a plus. Technical Proficiency Proficient with Microsoft Suite, most importantly Excel. Experience with ERP Systems specifically Sage X3 is preferred. Other Qualifications Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to coordinate effectively with suppliers and cross-functional teams. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, follow-through, and the ability to manage multiple purchasing priorities. Ability to exercise sound judgment and remain effective in a fast-paced food-manufacturing environment. Core Competencies Communication: Communicates purchasing priorities, supplier issues, risks, and required actions clearly and promptly. Attention to Detail: Maintains accurate purchase orders, inventory information, delivery dates, pricing, and supplier documentation. Planning and Organization: Prioritizes competing requirements and coordinates materials to support production schedules. Problem Solving: Identifies supply risks, evaluates alternati…

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