Procurement Specialist

Procurement SpecialistWhy you will love working at Maola®:Built on over a century of dedication, Maola is always looking ahead—investing in our people, strengthening our communities, and securing fresh, local dairy for the future.Join a farmer-owned cooperative rooted in integrity, sustainability, and a passion for providing fresh, high-quality Maola dairy products.We prioritize your well-being with competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package, including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with employer match, Life Insurance, paid time off, and more—available within your first month.Our employees are an integral part of who we are — what you do and what you think mattersStarting Salary Range: $65,000 - 80,000SummaryAs a Procurement Specialist, you will be responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and procuring goods and services essential for the operations of the organization. You will collaborate with various departments to understand their needs, identify suitable suppliers, review contracts, and ensure timely delivery of products and services while maintaining cost-efficiency and quality standards. Your role requires meticulous attention to detail, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to build and maintain relationships with vendors and suppliers.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesSource and evaluate suppliers/vendors based on price, quality, and delivery speed.Review contracts with the Senior Procurement Manager and provide feedback on the changes needed.Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their procurement needs and requirements.Analyze market trends, supply base, and industry best practices to identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement.Maintain accurate records of purchases, pricing, and inventory on hand.Compile monthly inventory counts, enter data into a spreadsheet for reconciliation and ensure accuracy of data and documentation.Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements throughout the procurement process.Monitor supplier performance and address any issues or concerns related to quality, delivery, or pricing.Manage relationships with key suppliers, foster long-term partnerships and resolve disputes when necessary.Coordinate with receiving and inventory teams to ensure timely receipt and inspection of purchased goods.Provide feedback and updates as needed on procurement activities, including cost savings initiatives and supplier performance.Stay informed about market changes, new products, and emerging trends in procurement and supply chain management.Participate in cross-functional teams and projects to support organizational goals and initiatives.Utilize various analytical, creative or problem-solving techniques to support organizational goals, initiatives or supplier relationships.Manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.Other duties as assigned.Basic RequirementsAt least Bachelor's degree in Business or related field and at least 2 years of related experience OR 6 years of purchasing experience required.At least 2 years of experience with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards related to procurement and supply chain management preferred.At least 2 years of experience with Microsoft office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and an ERP system. SAP experience is preferred.At least 2 years of experience with procurement processes, contract management, and supplier relationship management.CompetenciesCommunicationCommunicate clearly and effectively through multiple channels – oral, written, visual, and non-verbal – ensuring our messages are understood and delivered appropriately, whether in-person or digitally.AccountabilityTake responsibility for actions and anticipate challenges before they arise.Solve problems both within and outside of departments, proactively addressing issues as they occur.Customer FocusedPrioritize understanding and meeting both internal and external customer needs.Ensure high levels of satisfaction and loyalty by anticipating customer requirements and striving for exceptional service.InitiativeProactive in identifying opportunities and addressing potential threats.Act independently and decisively, rather than waiting for situations to demand action.Problem-SolvingPossess the ability to identify and address complex issues with minimal guidance.Skilled at analyzing challenges and finding practical, effective solutions.CollaborationTake responsibility for deliverables while also supporting others to ensure that collective goals are met.Able to work harmoniously with others toward a common goal, recognizing and valuing each person's contributions, is fundamental to successful collaboration.Physical DemandsThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision for computer work and ability to adjust focus. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.Work EnvironmentThe work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.The individual would encounter normal office environmental conditions.The noise level for the work environment would be considered in the moderate range (example: computers, printers, light traffic).Maola Local Dairies® is a farmer-owned cooperative sustainably producing a full suite of nutritious dairy products. Maola processes milk, cream, butter, and dry milk powders through our network of six dairy processing plants. With a keen eye on quality, freshness, and love for the environment, Maola delivers dairy products that are both nutritious and sustainable to our local communities. For more information about Maola, please visit qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.