Food Purchasing Agent ***Starting at $20 hr FT

Description

Purchasing Agent

Four day work week. Starting at 6am

Overview: The Food Purchasing Agent is responsible for sourcing and procuring food and beverage products for the organization. This role involves working closely with vendors, suppliers, and the Executive Chef and Purchasing Director to ensure that food products meet quality, cost, and delivery specifications. The Purchasing Agent will help maintain inventory levels, streamline purchasing processes, and support cost-saving initiatives while ensuring compliance with food safety regulations and company policies.

Key Responsibilities:

Procurement of Food & Beverage Products:

• Identify and select vendors and suppliers for food and beverage products with a strong emphasis on the best quality products at the best possible prices.
• Place and manage purchase orders for a wide range of food items (e.g., fresh produce, packaged goods, frozen foods, specialty items).
• Fill and deliver all requisitions to their respective departments on a daily basis.

Inventory Management:

• Monitor inventory levels of food products and reorder as necessary to prevent shortages or overstocking.
• Maintain accurate records of all food and beverage purchases, deliveries, and stock levels.
• Coordinate with departments to track product usage and identify trends in demand.

Quality Control:

• Work with vendors to ensure that products meet quality standards, and resolve any issues related to product defects, delays, or discrepancies.
• Monitor product quality through regular inspections and by reviewing supplier performance.
• Follow the FIFO method for all food products.

Compliance & Documentation:

• Ensure that all food products meet regulatory standards and comply with food safety guidelines.
• Maintain proper documentation for all food product purchases, including contracts, invoices, and delivery receipts.
• Stay informed about changes in food safety regulations, industry standards, and best practices.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with chefs, kitchen staff, and other departments to understand food needs and forecast demand.
• Provide timely updates on order statuses, delays, or changes in product availability.

Experience:

• Previous experience in food purchasing, procurement, or supply chain management is preferred.
• Familiarity with food safety standards, inventory management, and vendor negotiation practices.
• Knowledge of the food industry and market trends.

Skills:

• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to build lasting vendor relationships.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Proficient in using procurement software, Microsoft Excel, and other data analysis tools.
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on accuracy and compliance.

Certifications:

• Certification in food safety (e.g., ServSafe) is a plus.
• Certification in procurement or supply chain management (CPSM, CPP) is a plus.

Work Environment:

• May need to work in cold storage areas or on production floors for quality inspections.
• Flexible working hours, including occasional evening depending on business needs.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to lift boxes or materials weighing up to 50lbs.
• Ability to sit or stand for long periods, use computers, and perform tasks requiring manual dexterity.

Language:

· Required to speak, read, write English, and do basic mathematics.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

· None

Reports To:

· Director of Purchasing and/or Executive Chef

Salary : $20