What are the responsibilities and job description for the Buyer/Purchasing Agent position at Seashore Fruit & Produce Co.?
With decades of expertise, Seashore Fruit & Produce Co. delivers quality produce and solutions to foodservice professionals in NJ, NY, PA, CT, DE, MD, VA, and DC. Our commitment to quality and innovation drives us to create lasting partnerships and deliver excellence for both produce and non-produce items alike.
Description:
We are seeking a Buyer/Purchasing Agent to join our growing company. The ideal candidate brings experience in the warehouse or distribution industry, preferably having managed non-durable goods. The successful applicant demonstrates enthusiasm for quality food items, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is committed to building and maintaining strong partnerships with suppliers, vendors, and customers.
The Buyer/Purchasing Agent will play an integral role in procurement, collaborating with team members and Seashore Leadership to select and acquire products, analyze market trends, communicate with suppliers, and ensure that the appropriate products are available at the right times. The incumbent will be responsible for purchasing goods, ensuring high quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery, while maintaining and developing supplier relationships.
This role offers a hybrid work arrangement after the initial onboarding and training period (duration to be determined). After training, you are required to be present in the Vineland office at least three days per week. To ensure smooth order management, some weekend work may be required. However, this can be completed remotely. Further details will be shared during the interview process.
Key Responsibilities:
- Procurement and Inventory Management: Track current inventory, order points, and quantities, ensuring stock levels meet production or sales needs. Update ERP systems with delivery information.
- Supplier Relations and Negotiation: Evaluate vendors, negotiate contracts, and maintain strong relationships to secure competitive pricing and favorable contract terms.
- Order Processing and Documentation: Submit purchase orders, track deliveries, and maintain accurate records of all transactions, invoices, and supplier communications.
- Quality Assurance: Assess the quality of received goods, ensure compliance with specifications, and escalate discrepancies to management or suppliers.
- Work with internal teams to forecast needs and align purchases with business goals.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, logistics, economics, or business preferred.
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Knowledge of agriculture, produce, and food service required.
- A minimum of 5-7 years in a similar purchasing role is required.
- Strong numerical and analytical skills for evaluating sales data and inventory.
- Advanced level of proficiency in ERP systems, Microsoft Office, with expert-level capabilities in Excel.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills for interacting with suppliers, vendors, and internal team members.
- Organizational skills and the ability to multitask under pressure.
- Strong analytical and decision-making skills to evaluate suppliers and market trends.
- High level of attention to detail and ability to manage multiple orders under time pressure.
- May require travel for supplier visits or other industry events.
No agencies or third parties, please. Unsolicited emails will not receive a response.