Category Buyer

Category Buyer

The Category Buyer is a key member of the Procurement Team, responsible for supporting purchasing activities and maintaining accurate inventory records for our Milk Protein Plant. This role processes requisitions and purchase orders, updates item information, and ensures timely follow-up on orders. Additional responsibilities include generating stock replenishment requisitions, performing physical counts, sourcing items for pricing and availability, and assisting team members as needed.

Obtains quotes from vendors for supplies and services, including cost, availability, and delivery schedules.

Places orders and updates order details such as cost, manufacturer/catalog number, vendor information, and lead times.

Follows up on open orders and updates delivery information.

Reviews bid proposals and negotiates pricing within budgetary limitations and scope of authority.

Collaborates with internal departments to identify correct parts and supplies.

Confirms orders, pricing, and item numbers.

Communicates with appropriate personnel regarding order status, lead times, and manufacturing changes.

Coordinates spare parts updates with the Maintenance Planner.

Manages bag inventory levels with suppliers to maintain proper stock.

Assists in the storeroom when coverage or additional support is needed.

Works closely with Accounts Payable to ensure accurate purchase order details, including sales tax, and resolves discrepancies.

High School Diploma/GED or equivalent work-related experience.

Previous experience in a purchasing or procurement role.

Experience with computer applications including Excel and Word.

Experience with CMMS applications preferred but not required.

High level of accuracy and attention to detail.

Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks.

Resourceful problem-solving abilities.

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and familiarity with CMMS systems.

Understanding of sourcing and vendor relationship management.

Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.

Ability to follow and improve processes and procedures.

Self-motivated, able to work independently with minimal supervision.

Ability to handle confidential information appropriately.

Environmental exposure to warehouses stored at ambient (60-70° F), refrigerated (35° F), and frozen (minus 20° F) temperatures, as well as potential exposure to temperatures at or above 120° F.

Walking: Moving about on foot to accomplish tasks, particularly for short distances on a regular basis.

Subject to up to at least 92db's.

Lifting: up to 20 lbs. occasionally.

Reaching: Extending hands and arms in any direction.

Stooping: Bending body downward and forward by bending spine at the waist occasionally.

Talking: Expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word. Those activities that must convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately, loudly, or quickly.