Purchasing Agent

Company Description

Since 1935, Lakewood has produced a diverse line of pure organic and premium fruit juice products using the finest ingredients. Our mission is to deliver top-quality fruit products manufactured with integrity and respect for the environment, customers, and employees. Lakewood prides itself on creating fresh-pressed, 100% pure organic and premium juices with no additives or artificial ingredients. Our juices are a natural source of antioxidants, phytochemical nutrients, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

OVERVIEW

To provide support knowledge and tact dealing to the purchasing department and outside vendors for the purpose of obtaining goods to support the organization.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist senior buyers with preparation of purchasing documents including RFQs, quote comparisons, spreadsheet analysis, requisitions and reports.
• Research and evaluate suppliers based on price,
• Evaluates vendor quotes and services to determine the most desirable suppliers based on quality, cost and delivery.
• Monitor shipments to ensure that goods come in on time, and in the event of problems trace shipments and follow up undelivered goods.
• Confer with staff, users, and vendors to discuss defective or unacceptable goods or services and determine corrective action.
• Participates in and supports Quality Assurance and Improvement Program.
• Maintain and review computerized or manual records of items purchased, costs, delivery, product performance, and inventories.
• Review catalogs, industry periodicals, directories, trade journals, and internet sites, and consult with other department personnel to locate necessary goods and services.
• Study sales records and inventory levels of current stock to develop strategic purchasing programs that facilitate employee access to supplies.
• Assist senior buyers with vendors and visit suppliers' plants and distribution centers to examine and learn about products, services and prices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Associates Degree in Business or related field

B.S. in Business or Supply Chain preferred

Work Experience

1-3 years of purchasing experience REQUIRED

Experience in a manufacturing environment

Experience in purchasing MRO, Equipment and services

Relevant experience working in the food processing industry (preferred)

Skills and Knowledge