Procurement Assistant

Procurement Assistant

Davidson College Dining is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Procurement Assistant to join our dynamic Culinary Team. This is a 9-month, 40 hour per week benefited position plays a key role in supporting the operational excellence of our dining program through efficient purchasing, accurate receiving, and organized storage of food, disposables, and small wares.

The Procurement Assistant ensures consistent product availability and quality across Vail Commons, Much Ado Catering, and Wildcat Concessions, and works closely with culinary leadership and vendors to maintain high standards in service, sustainability, and fiscal responsibility.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with culinary staff to review menus and determine product types and quantities needed
• Place and track product orders; verify purchase orders for completeness and accuracy
• Arrange timely delivery and proper storage of food, disposables, and small wares
• Inspect incoming products to ensure quality and resolve any discrepancies with vendors
• Maintain appropriate par levels and proactively manage inventory to prevent shortages
• Communicate daily with the Executive Chef and culinary team regarding product usage, substitutions, outages, and restocking
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers
• Leverage Group Purchasing Organization (GPO) contracts to maximize quality and cost-efficiency
• Conduct comparative cost analysis for key categories such as produce and proteins
• Maintain and update internal procurement and costing systems
• Collaborate with the Dining Office Manager to process invoices and transfer costs
• Research new products and suppliers that align with Davidson's values and student needs
• Support and enhance sustainability efforts, including composting and waste reduction initiatives
• Work with the Farm at Davidson College on sourcing and sustainability data
• Adhere to the uniform policy.
• Any other duties assigned by the Supervisor.

Working Conditions:

• Work is performed in a kitchen environment with exposure to sharp utensils, hot/cold temperatures, cleaning chemicals, and slippery surfaces
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs and move between storage, prep, and kitchen areas
• This role has physical demands including, but not limited to, lifting, bending, pushing, pulling, carrying and / or extended walking and standing.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in a quality food service environment
• Strong organizational and communication skills (both written and verbal)
• ServSafe Food protection Manager and Allertrain U certified (or within 30 days of hire).
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel
• Experience using inventory or procurement systems preferred
• Sound judgment and problem-solving abilities
• Demonstrated commitment to teamwork, service excellence, and sustainability

Physical Demands

• Balancing
• Carrying
• Pulling / Pushing
• Repetitive Movement
• Standing
• Bending
• Reaching
• Twisting
• Driving
• Climbing

Environmental Hazards

• Chemicals
• Confined Spaces
• Dust / Fumes
• Indoor Temperature Extremes
• Noise
• Darkness / Poor Lighting

Lifting Required: 50 pounds.

Travel Required: Less than 5 %.

Night and Weekend Work Required: Yes

Seasonal Responsibilities: Procurement Assistant may be assigned to work in a different dining unit and there may be limited work available during school holidays and breaks when classes are not in session. Throughout the academic year there are periods of down time when work is not available. Examples of these include winter break and spring break.

Benefits

• Insurance is available.
• Tiered shift differential pays for evenings and weekends.
• Holiday pay.
• Vacation hours accrual.
• Sick time accrual.
• Meals are included during the employee's normal work hours.