Buyer - Specialty Foods

Savory Gourmet is a specialty food distributor and importer based in the Los Angeles area focused on bringing the highest quality foods from around the world to the best kitchens in the Southern California region. From European cheeses to Italian olive oils to New Caledonian blue prawns, our team sources extraordinary ingredients that inspire chefs and keep menus fresh and exciting.

We are seeking a full-time Specialty Foods Buyer.

Responsibilities:

• Perform purchasing functions, including forecasting and order placement
• Build and maintain strong vendor relationships
• Oversee inventory, including offsite cold storage movements
• Collaborate with warehouse staff to ensure accurate cycle counts
• Evaluate pricing and negotiate vendor terms
• Support product launches and share product knowledge with the team
• Partner with receiving manager to confirm accurate receiving in the database
• Coordinate domestic shipping and schedule local pickups
• Maintain traceability and accuracy in inventory systems
• Address quality issues with vendors and resolve customer complaints
• Collect and maintain food safety and regulatory documentation
• Assist with logistics and day-to-day problem solving across purchasing and operations

We are looking for a candidate with the following qualities:

• Detail-Oriented: Accuracy matters to you, even in a fast-paced environment
• Tech-Savvy: Comfortable with Mac OS, Microsoft Office, and eager to learn new systems (ERP/Inventory software a plus)
• Adaptable: At ease in both office and warehouse settings
• Food-Passionate: Excited about extraordinary food, from discovering producers to tasting and learning their stories
• Collaborative: A strong team player who enjoys solving problems and building relationships
• Proactive: You anticipate challenges and bring forward solutions

Bonus Points For:

• Knowledge of the hospitality or food service industry in Southern California
• Language skills (French, Spanish, Italian)
• Familiarity with specialty foods (cheese, charcuterie, oils, baking ingredients, caviar, etc.)
• Experience with food safety, sanitary operations, or quality control

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to combine your love of food with your professional skills. At Savory Gourmet, you’ll not only keep operations running smoothly but also connect with global producers and help bring their products to the best kitchens in Southern California.

Job Type: Full-time

Base Pay: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person