Job Details
Job Location: Vernon, CA
Salary Range: Undisclosed
Job Category: Manufacturing
Description
Job Title: Frozen Buyer
Department: Procurement / Purchasing
Reports To: Purchasing Manager / Category Manager
Location: Vernon, CA
FLSA Status: Exempt
Compensation: $65,500.00-$85,000.00 per year
Job Summary
The Frozen Buyer is responsible for sourcing and purchasing frozen food products for the organization. This role includes managing supplier relationships, negotiating prices, monitoring inventory levels, and ensuring products meet quality and food safety standards. The Frozen Buyer will work closely with sales, inventory, and logistics teams to ensure that frozen products are consistently available to meet customer demand while optimizing cost and efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
Procurement & Supplier Management
Sourcing & Supplier Relationships: Identify and establish strong relationships with suppliers of frozen food products. Negotiate pricing, contracts, and delivery schedules to ensure reliable supply and competitive pricing.
Vendor Management: Maintain relationships with current suppliers, evaluate supplier performance, and address any issues related to product quality or delivery timelines.
Order Placement: Place and manage orders for frozen products, ensuring that inventory levels are optimized to meet demand without overstocking.
Inventory Management & Demand Forecasting
Inventory Optimization: Monitor and manage stock levels for frozen food products, ensuring an appropriate balance between supply and demand while minimizing waste due to spoilage.
Forecasting & Planning: Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to forecast demand for seasonal or promotional frozen products. Adjust purchasing plans accordingly to ensure availability during peak periods.
Stock Rotation: Ensure proper stock rotation practices (FIFO – First In, First Out) are followed to reduce waste and ensure product freshness.
Market Analysis & Cost Management
Market Research: Stay informed on market trends, new frozen food products, competitor pricing, and changes in supply chain dynamics.
Cost Control: Continuously evaluate frozen food pricing and seek opportunities for cost reduction through better purchasing strategies or supplier negotiations.
Profitability Management: Work with the purchasing manager to ensure that frozen food procurement aligns with the company’s profitability targets.
Quality Assurance & Food Safety Compliance
Product Quality: Ensure that all frozen food products purchased meet company quality standards and comply with food safety regulations (e.g., USDA, FDA, HACCP).
Inspection & Audits: Perform quality checks on incoming frozen products to verify compliance with specifications. Report any quality issues and work with suppliers to resolve them.
Packaging & Labeling: Verify that all frozen products comply with packaging and labeling requirements, including shelf life, product information, and allergen labeling.
Collaboration & Reporting
Cross-Departmental Coordination: Collaborate with the logistics, warehouse, and sales teams to ensure that frozen products are received, stored, and distributed effectively.
Reporting: Provide regular updates on purchasing activity, inventory levels, supplier performance, and pricing trends to senior management.
Problem Resolution: Address any issues related to supply disruptions, delivery delays, or product shortages in a timely and efficient manner.
Sustainability & Innovation
Sustainable Practices: Support the company’s sustainability goals by sourcing frozen products from suppliers who prioritize sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.
Product Innovation: Stay informed about new frozen food trends, ingredients, and consumer preferences. Propose new products or modifications to existing products to enhance the company’s frozen food offerings.
Qualifications
Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in business, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (preferred).
Relevant certifications in procurement or supply chain (e.g., C.P.M., C.P.S.M.) are a plus.
Experience:
Minimum of 2-4 years of experience in purchasing or buying, ideally in the frozen food or broader food industry.
Proven experience in vendor management, negotiating prices, and managing supplier relationships.
Strong understanding of inventory management and demand forecasting principles.
Skills:
Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
Analytical skills with the ability to assess data and market trends to inform purchasing decisions.
Strong organizational and multitasking abilities, with attention to detail.
Proficiency in procurement software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or other ERP systems) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Familiarity with food safety regulations and compliance standards.
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift to 25-30 lbs. as needed for product inspection or stock management.
Ability to work in cold storage environments when inspecting products or managing inventory.
Working Conditions
Full-time, on-site position with occasional travel to supplier sites or warehouses.
Standard office hours with some flexibility required based on workload and urgent procurement needs.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary based on experience.
Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
401(k) retirement plan with company match.
Paid time off (PTO) and company holidays.
Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
