Purchasing Specialist-Food Manufacturing

Partners, A Tasteful Choice Company, is an award-winning, family-owned, environmentally, and socially responsible company. Since 1992.

We are a leading food manufacturing company dedicated to delivering high-quality products to our customers. Our commitment to excellence includes sourcing the freshest ingredients, maintaining strict food safety standards, and fostering strong supplier partnerships to ensure operations efficiency and sustainability.

What we are looking for::
An experienced purchasing specialist with strong negotiation and vendor management skills. Dependable and willing to work in a fast paced environment, adept at balancing competing deadlines and deliverables.

Job summary:

The Purchasing Specialist will manage procurement of raw ingredients, packaging materials, and related supplies for food production. The role ensures timely sourcing, compliance with food safety regulations, and cost optimization while supporting production schedules and quality standards.

Work schedule and What we Offer:

This is an on-site role with standard weekday hours. 10 observed holidays, Benefits include medical, dental, vision, insurance, after a waiting period. Retirement with 3% employer match, 84 hours Paid time off, increases over time. Employee education reimbursement and opportunities for growth. Multi-cultural team environment. Clean bright environment with the sweet aroma of baked goods.

Competitive pay ($25.00-$45.00) per hour, based on experience).

This position works in both an office environment and manufacturing environment and may be exposed to varying temperature changes, loud noises, and the handling of allergen ingredients, including wheat, milk, eggs, tree nuts, and sesame.

Main Responsibilities:

• Source and purchase raw ingredients, packaging, and other materials required for food manufacturing.
• Ensure all purchased items meet food safety and quality standards, including compliance with FISMA and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate replenishment to align with production schedules.
• Negotiate pricing, delivery timelines, and terms with suppliers to achieve cost savings and reliability.
• Manage relationships with suppliers of goods to ensure freshness and minimize waste.
• Collaborate with production, quality assurance, and logistics teams to forecast material needs and prevent shortages.
• Track and resolve discrepancies related to orders, invoices, and deliveries.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records and prepare reports for management.
• Support sustainability initiatives and compliance with company standards.
• Participate in audits and maintain documentation for traceability and food safety compliance.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support business objectives.

What you’ll bring to the team:

• You are reliable, punctual, and will have excellent attendance.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently with strong time management skills.
• Work harmoniously with others in a team atmosphere.

Requited Education and Experience:

• 1-3 years of purchasing experience in food manufacturing or related industry.
• Working knowledge of ERP systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Understanding of food safety standards (HACCP, FDA, USDA) and regulatory compliance.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Purchasing, Supply Chain Management, or related field
• Certified FISMA Compliance Practitioner a plus.

Why choose Partners over the other big names?
We are a family-owned company and we have a family-owned vibe. Many of our employees have been with us for several years, many over a decade. We understand that work is important, but family and your well-being come first.

Partners is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment that is reflective of the communities we live in. We welcome and consider all applicants, regardless of race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, parental status, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, military service, and/or other non-merit-based factors.

Background check required. We are an E-verify employer.

To learn more about our company, our products, and our values, please visit https://partnerscrackers.com.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $45.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Are you located in Des Moines, WA 98198 or within the local area?

Work Location: In person