Buyer

Buyer Full Time Richmond, VA, US Salary Range: $71,000.00 To $78,000.00 Annually Company Overview Gold Star Foods is the leading nutritional food distributor serving K–12 schools across the United States. We’re passionate about delivering quality products, exceptional service, and reliable distribution that help feed communities across the nation. Our teammates are the heart of our success. At Gold Star Foods, we believe in fostering a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to make a difference every day. If you’re looking to grow your career with a mission-driven organization that values innovation, integrity, and teamwork — you’ve found the right place. Position Overview We’re seeking a proactive and detail-driven Buyer to join our Purchasing team. In this key role, you’ll help drive cost-effective purchasing, strengthen supplier partnerships, and support smooth, efficient operations across multiple departments. It’s an excellent opportunity for a motivated professional ready to make an impact in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. Key Responsibilities Source, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors and suppliers to achieve optimal pricing, quality, and service levels. Develop, manage, and strengthen relationships with suppliers to ensure reliability and accountability. Collaborate with internal teams to understand purchasing requirements and align strategies with operational and business goals. Monitor inventory levels, lead times, and product demand to prevent stockouts and overages. Analyze purchasing and market data to identify cost savings, process efficiencies, and improvement opportunities. Participate in vendor performance reviews and provide recommendations for continuous improvement. Proactively manage risks and mitigate potential supply chain disruptions by developing alternative sourcing options. Stay informed of industry trends, pricing shifts, and market developments to guide purchasing strategies. Maintain accurate and organized purchasing documentation, pricing data, and delivery records. Support procurement policy updates and compliance with company procedures and regulatory requirements. Perform other related duties as assigned by the Purchasing Manager or Senior Buyer. Qualifications & Skills 2–4 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management. Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Business, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred (or equivalent professional experience). Proven success in vendor relationship management and strategic negotiation. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with attention to accuracy and detail. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and purchasing systems or ERP software. Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Knowledge of procurement ethics, policies, and compliance requirements. Work Location This is a hybrid position based out of our Jefferson City, MO office, offering flexibility to work both remotely and on‑site. Occasional travel may be required to support business needs, vendor meetings, and company initiatives. Why Join Gold Star Foods? Be part of an industry leader serving communities across the nation. Enjoy a collaborative culture where your ideas and contributions matter. Growth and advancement opportunities within a rapidly expanding organization. Competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and meaningful work with a purpose. 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 Buyer 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 Affiantive 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr