Buyer/Planner

Overview
We are seeking a detail-oriented, proactive Buyer Planner to join our food manufacturing facility in Riverside, CA. This role is responsible for managing the procurement of raw materials, ingredients, and packaging, while also overseeing material planning to align with production demands. The Buyer Planner ensures materials arrive on time, at the right cost and quantity, and meet the strict quality standards required in a food production environment. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, cross-functional role and has a strong understanding of supply chain operations, MRP systems, and food safety requirements.

The ideal candidate will possess strong negotiation skills and a solid understanding of supply chain management principles, along with experience in various ERP systems, specifically NetSuite.

Duties

• Develop and implement procurement strategies to ensure the timely acquisition of materials and supplies.
• Manage inventory levels through effective inventory control practices and MRP (Material Requirements Planning) processes.
• Collaborate with suppliers to negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts that align with company objectives.
• Utilize ERP systems such as NetSuite, SAP, JD Edwards, Oracle EBS, or AS400 for purchasing and inventory management tasks.
• Analyze market trends and sourcing opportunities to optimize supply chain efficiency.
• Coordinate with logistics teams to ensure smooth transportation and delivery of goods.
• Monitor supplier performance and maintain strong relationships to foster collaboration.
• Participate in production planning meetings to align material availability with production schedules.
• Support e-commerce initiatives by managing inventory for online sales channels.
• Conduct regular audits of inventory levels and adjust purchasing strategies accordingly.
• Purchasing & Procurement

- Source, evaluate, and select vendors based on quality, service, price, and reliability.
- Issue purchase orders, confirm order accuracy, and track delivery timelines.
- Collaborate with vendors to resolve shortages, delays, or non-conformities.
- Monitor market trends and changes in raw material pricing.

• Production & Material Planning

- Analyze production schedules and generate material requirements accordingly.
- Maintain accurate planning parameters (lead times, order quantities, safety stock) in ERP/MRP system.
- Work closely with Production, Scheduling, and Inventory teams to adjust plans in real time.

• Inventory & Cost Management

- Maintain optimal inventory levels to support continuous production while minimizing excess stock and waste.
- Track material usage trends, monitor slow-moving inventory, and make recommendations for inventory reduction.
- Conduct regular cycle counts and support year-end physical inventories.

• Cross-Functional Communication

- Partner with Quality Assurance to verify all materials meet regulatory and company standards.
- Communicate proactively with internal stakeholders regarding supply issues, backorders, or changes in production needs.
- Support product changes, reformulations, and new product introductions by securing required materials in advance.

• System & Data Management

- Maintain and update supplier and item master data within ERP system (experience with Oracle NetSuite highly preferred).
- Generate reports on purchasing performance, inventory levels, and supplier metrics.
- Ensure timely and accurate documentation of purchasing records and audit trails.

• Continuous Improvement

- Identify and drive initiatives for cost reduction, lead time improvements, and process efficiencies.
- Participate in root cause analysis and corrective actions for inventory discrepancies and supplier issues.
- Stay informed on industry trends, new sourcing opportunities, and emerging technologies in procurement.
Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• 5 + years proven experience in purchasing, procurement, or supply chain management roles.
• Proficiency in ERP systems such as SAP ERP, JD Edwards, Oracle EBS, or AS400 is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of materials management principles and logistics operations.
• Strong working knowledge of MRP systems; Oracle NetSuite or similar ERP platform experience highly desirable.
• Understanding of food safety, GMP, and quality control practices is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, v-lookups, reporting) and general Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and time management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent negotiation skills with the ability to build relationships with suppliers.
• Familiarity with pricing strategies, merchandising practices, and contracts management.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data related to inventory control and supply chain performance.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple priorities.
• Knowledge of e-commerce operations is a plus. Join our team as a Supply Chain Buyer/Planner where you can contribute to our success by ensuring efficient procurement processes and effective inventory management.
• This is a fully onsite role in our Riverside, CA production facility.
• Fast-paced manufacturing environment requiring frequent interaction with the production floor, warehouse, and QA departments.
• Occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs.) and standing/walking in production or warehouse areas.

Working Conditions

• Office and manufacturing floor environment.
• Must be able to communicate effectively and adapt to changing production demands.
• Occasional travel to supplier sites or co-pack facilities may be required.

EEOC Statement

Triple H Food Processors, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We comply with all applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which we operate. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants or employees with disabilities or religious needs whenever such accommodations are necessary to provide equal employment opportunities.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $29.80 per hour

Benefits:

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

Work Location: In person