Purchaser

Job Description

Job Description

GREENHOUSE PURCHASER FreeState Growers | Linwood, Kansas

DESCRIPTION The Greenhouse Purchaser is responsible for the end-to-end procurement of plant material, greenhouse supplies, and related products in alignment with production and seasonal demand needs. The position plays a critical role in ensuring consistent, timely, and accurate supply flow to support daily greenhouse operations. This position requires a collaborative, detail-oriented professional who can operate both tactically (executing daily purchasing activities) and strategically (anticipating seasonal needs, managing vendor relationships, and supporting cost control efforts).

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Purchase plants, seeds, soil, fertilizers, containers, and greenhouse supplies
• Execute purchase orders based on production plans, system signals, and inventory needs
• Maintain appropriate inventory levels and monitor product usage
• Review inventory and production needs to support accurate and timely purchasing decisions
• Maintain order accuracy by confirming purchase orders and updating system data as needed
• Communicate with vendors regarding pricing, availability, delivery schedules, and payments
• Compare pricing and negotiate favorable terms when appropriate
• Track purchase orders, invoices, and receiving documentation
• Track open orders and follow up with vendors to ensure on-time delivery
• Expedite or adjust orders to resolve potential delays or material shortages
• Coordinate deliveries and verify the accuracy of shipments
• Work with greenhouse management to anticipate seasonal product needs
• Support alignment of supply with demand by responding to changes in production or availability
• Monitor product quality and address vendor issues as needed
• Communicate supply issues, delays, or constraints to greenhouse management in a timely manner
• Coordinate with vendors to resolve order discrepancies, including pricing, quantities, and delivery issues
• Assist with resolving invoice and receiving discrepancies to ensure accurate processing
• Support logistics activities such as scheduling pickups and coordinating shipments as needed
• Process returns, claims, and replacement orders when required
• Maintain accurate data within purchasing systems, reports, and material catalogs
• Maintain organized purchasing and inventory records

Additional Responsibilities

• Participate in weekly team and vendor meetings to stay aligned on priorities and updates
• Assist in preparing and reviewing vendor performance reports
• Assist with budgeting and cost control efforts
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to purchasing processes and inventory flow

REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Previous purchasing, inventory, greenhouse, agricultural, or retail experience preferred
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
• Solid organizational and communication skills
• Ability to follow structured processes and work in a fast-paced environment
• Proficient in basic computer systems, email, and spreadsheets
• QuickBooks experience required
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and build effective working relationships

Preferred:

• Basic knowledge of plants, greenhouse products, or horticulture
• Experience supporting vendor communication or purchasing operations

SKILLS

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability to work well in a team-oriented environment
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities; capable of identifying problems, evaluating options, and implementing practical solutions
• Effective time management skills to complete tasks within deadlines and maintain productivity
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues efficiently
• Attention to detail and accuracy

COMPETENCIES

• Collaborates
• Communicates effectively
• Customer Focus
• Drives results

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout greenhouse facilities regularly
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds occasionally
• Ability to work in varying temperatures and greenhouse conditions

WORK ENVIRONMENT This position operates in both an office and greenhouse environment and may require occasional weekend or seasonal scheduling flexibility during peak seasons.

Location: Fully Onsite in Leavenworth County, Kansas Pay: $20/hr Hours: Monday–Friday; 7:30am–3pm