Packaging Category Buyer

Are you ready to embark on a career where innovation meets excellence? At Jost Chemical Company, we’re on a mission to push the boundaries of chemical manufacturing, delivering high-quality products that make a positive impact on global industries.

If you’re passionate about chemistry, dedicated to precision, and eager to contribute to a company that values both innovation and integrity, explore our exciting job opportunities. Join us in shaping the future of chemical manufacturing at Jost Chemical Company, where your career is more than just a job – it’s a journey of growth and achievement.

Then, this position is right for you!

Founded in 1985, Jost Chemical is a global leader in the manufacture of high purity mineral salts for the nutritional, pharmaceutical and specialty markets. Expansion, growth of capabilities, and investment in people, lab and production equipment have been a part of Jost's company culture for 35 years. To learn more about Jost Chemical please visit www.jostchemical.com

Our offer:

• Shift Differential
• Medical/Dental/Vision Plan Insurance, Short and Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance first of the month following 60 days.
• 401k plan which includes safe-harbor contribution and discretionary match.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) Employees eligible first day of employment.
• 9 Company Paid Holidays (72 hours) each year.
• 24-hour access to our free, on-site fitness center.
• We provide Individual development, on-the-job training, and development programs designed to enhance your professional growth and development while ensuring you feel valued, inspired and appreciated at work.

Jost Chemical is an equal opportunity employer and affirmatively seeks diversity in its workforce. We consider applicants, and make all employment decisions, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to recruiting and retaining the best talent in the chemical manufacturing industry.

About the Role

Jost is seeking a highly organized and analytical Packaging Buyer to support procurement activities for primary and secondary packaging components within our manufacturing operations. Working under the direction of the Purchasing Manager, this role is responsible for sourcing, negotiating, and purchasing materials using ERP/MRP systems to optimize inventory levels while meeting standards of Quality, Service, and Cost.

The ideal candidate brings strong purchasing experience, excellent communication skills, and the ability to collaborate across departments in a fast-paced, GMP-related environment.

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing & Procurement

• Purchase packaging and raw material components required for plant operations using ERP/MRP systems (Ross/Aptean).
• Create accurate purchase orders and ensure on-time material receipt in alignment with production planning.
• Monitor inventory levels and prepare purchasing schedules to maintain “just-in-time” supply.
• Verify purchase requisitions, compare requirements to master lists, clarify unclear items, and recommend alternatives.
• Negotiate cash discounts, volume pricing, contract terms, and OEM agreements to support cost savings goals.

Supplier Management & Strategic Sourcing

• Research, evaluate, and qualify suppliers based on pricing, service, quality, capability, reliability, and market reputation.
• Conduct strategic sourcing initiatives to reduce spend, support continuous improvement, and reduce supply chain risk.
• Negotiate and execute supply agreements and category contracts.
• Maintain vendor performance records including pricing histories and operational issues.

Category Management

• Track commodity markets (fiberboard, resin, steel, etc.) and key cost drivers affecting the packaging category.
• Maintain master lists of all packaging components; monitor monthly cost fluctuations and communicate changes to Accounting and Sales.
• Design new packaging components (poly drums, liners, super sacks, cartons, fiber drums) for customers and internal use.
• Create, implement, and reconcile annual RFQs to meet organizational cost-saving initiatives.
• Meet annual cost-saving targets established by the Purchasing Manager and Executive Team.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Attend weekly production planning meetings and coordinate lead times, shipment schedules, and quantity requirements with Planning and Sales teams.
• Work closely with Production, Quality, Accounting, and other departments to ensure purchasing needs are met.
• Develop procedures for receiving and verification of goods; resolve shipment discrepancies with suppliers.

Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare PowerPoint presentations for Executive leadership and Board-level reviews when requested.
• Collect, analyze, and summarize purchasing data and trends to support decision-making and forecasting.
• Maintain accessible, accurate purchasing documentation and files.

General

• Follow established purchasing policies and assist in updating procedures when necessary.
• Complete additional tasks assigned by Management to support the improvement of Jost operations.

Qualifications

Education

• Associate or Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, Purchasing, or related field required.

Experience

• Minimum 3 years of purchasing experience using ERP/MRP systems (preferably in food/pharma manufacturing or distribution).
• Purchasing or supply chain certification (e.g., CSPM) preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and mathematical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• High attention to detail and organizational accuracy.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint required).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong negotiation skills with experience managing RFQs, contracts, and supplier performance.

Knowledge

• Purchasing processes, procurement policy compliance, and strategic sourcing methodology.
• Inventory monitoring, planning, and delivery scheduling.
• Supplier evaluation based on price, quality, service, and performance history.

Abilities

• Research, evaluate, and select suppliers using qualitative and quantitative criteria.
• Expedite orders and resolve shipment discrepancies.
• Support organizational goals through cost savings initiatives and effective procurement decisions.
• Maintain accurate purchasing documentation, records, and reporting tools.