Buyer II

Buyer II

Are you ready for your next adventure? At Oregon Freeze Dry, innovation isn't just a buzzword, it's our foundation. We are a purpose-driven company with six decades of expertise in freeze-drying technology. Best known as the makers of Mountain House© meals, we are experts in advanced lyophilization solutions that can help people live healthier lives. Our headquarters in Albany, Oregon sits at the crossroads of science and nature, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that fuel bold ideas and transformative breakthroughs. We're driven by a commitment to quality, creativity, and continuous improvement, and we're always looking ahead to what's next. We're proud of our legacy, but our future is even more exciting. If you're passionate and ready to make an impact, Oregon Freeze Dry isn't just a place to work, it's where your adventure begins.

We are looking for a Buyer II who is responsible for procuring raw materials, packaging, and indirect materials to support manufacturing operations. This role manages supplier relationships, negotiates commercial terms, monitors inventory requirements, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to ensure a reliable, cost-effective supply of materials.

You will get to:

• Procure raw materials, packaging, and indirect materials required to support production schedules and business operations.
• Create, release, and manage purchase orders through the ERP system to ensure timely replenishment of materials and inventory.
• Monitor inventory levels, demand forecasts, supplier lead times, and consumption trends to maintain material availability while minimizing excess inventory.
• Serve as the procurement contact for assigned suppliers and materials, coordinating supply requirements and communicating material concerns to internal stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain supplier relationships that support quality, delivery, service, and cost objectives.
• Negotiate pricing, lead times, minimum order quantities, and other commercial terms within established authority levels.
• Monitor supplier performance and work with suppliers to resolve quality, delivery, service, and cost issues.
• Collaborate with Production Planning, Operations, Quality Assurance, Engineering, and other departments to support material requirements and resolve supply chain challenges.
• Identify and resolve material shortages, supply disruptions, and delivery concerns to minimize operational impact.
• Support supplier qualification, onboarding, and supplier performance review activities.
• Conduct supplier evaluations, obtain quotations, and support sourcing activities for existing products and operational needs.
• Analyze purchasing, inventory, supplier, and demand data to identify opportunities for cost savings, inventory optimization, and process improvement.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to procurement processes, supplier performance, and inventory management.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and applicable food safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in department meetings, projects, and cross-functional initiatives to support organizational objectives.
• Regular and reliable attendance on a full-time basis.
• Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal and external business associates that reflect positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices.
• Ensure compliance with SQF, FDA, and USDA regulations.
• Participate in department meetings, projects, and cross-functional initiatives to support organizational objectives.
• Regular and reliable attendance on a full-time basis.
• Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal and external business associates that reflect positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices.
• Embody OFD's cultural values and aligns daily actions with department and company culture.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Generally, a minimum of three (3) years of experience in Purchasing, including in a manufacturing environment with Bachelors in Supply Chain, Business or related field.
• Knowledge of industry best practices and emerging trends gained through participation in professional associations, continuing education, certifications, and industry networking opportunities (e.g., ISM, APICS, or equivalent).
• Working knowledge of purchasing, inventory management, demand planning, and procurement processes within a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to manage supplier relationships, negotiate routine commercial terms, and resolve supply, service, and delivery issues.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate purchasing, inventory, supplier, and demand data and make recommendations to improve business results.
• Proficiency in ERP systems, inventory management tools, Microsoft Office applications, and Excel.
• Ability to build effective working relationships and communicate professionally with suppliers and cross-functional stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment, maintain attention to detail, and support continuous improvement, food safety, quality, and regulatory compliance requirements.

Employees will work with moderate noise level. Employees will perform tasks while experiencing numerous interruptions. Periodic exposure to plant conditions (varying temperatures, fumes, wet, dry, high noise). The work environment is fast paced. This position has the utmost responsibility for compliance with the rules and regulations regarding a safe and healthy work environment relative to their actions and conduct. Off-shift, weekend and overtime duties may be required. While performing the job duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use English written and oral communication skills.

This position requires occasional travel to Company, vendor, and other business-related locations, including vendor visits, trade shows, conferences, and educational seminars. Travel may involve both day trips and overnight travel by car or air and is generally expected to be approximately 5–10% of working time.

Thriving together: Your OFD Total Rewards and Benefits: At Oregon Freeze Dry, we believe that our employees are the key to our success. That's why we offer a competitive total rewards package aimed at supporting the health, financial security, and overall wellbeing of you and your family.

• Customize your healthcare coverage: including medical, dental, and vision options to fit your needs.
• Boost your savings: Choose an FSA or HSA for extra flexibility.
• Plan for your future: enroll into our 401(k) with employer match and immediate vesting.
• Peace of mind: Life and disability insurance to keep you and your loved ones protected.
• Furry friends: Pet insurance for your four-legged family members.
• Recharge & Refresh: Enjoy paid company holidays, PTO and sick time
• Give back: join us in making a difference with community support opportunities.
• Score savings: Unlock exclusive employee discounts and special savings on Mountain House product.
• Spread the word: Earn bonuses for referring awesome new team members.

Oregon Freeze Dry is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace. We value diversity and are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all employees. Qualified candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply and will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability. All applicants who receive a conditional offer of employment may be required to take and pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.