Assistant Buyer - Packaging

Job Summary:

The Assistant Buyer reports directly to the Supply Chain Manager and plays a critical role in supporting manufacturing operations through the timely procurement and management of primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging components. This position is responsible for purchase order execution, supplier coordination, inventory accuracy, and packaging readiness to support production schedules. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, proactive, and comfortable working cross-functionally with warehouse, production, quality, and supply chain teams. This position is fluid and is subject to periodic changes in duties.

Job Description:

Create, place, and track all open purchase orders to ensure components (packaging & ingredients) are ordered to specification, on time, and at competitive pricing. Source, size, and procure primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging, including but not limited to bottles, jars, caps, pumps, unit cartons, labels, master shippers, dividers, chipboard pads, and protective materials. Maintain strong, positive working relationships with packaging suppliers and act as a day-to-day point of contact. Research and recommend new packaging suppliers as needed to support cost, capacity, quality, or lead-time improvements. Support supplier negotiations in alignment with guidance from the Supply Chain Manager. Monitor packaging inventory levels to support production schedules and prevent shortages or excess. Ensure packaging components arrive in time to support manufacturing and filling operations. Perform cycle counts and investigate inventory discrepancies. Coordinate with warehouse staff to verify incoming deliveries against purchase orders and packing slips. Escalate packaging risks, delays, or shortages that may impact production timelines. Maintain accurate packaging item data, including specifications, lead times, minimum order quantities, and approved supplier information within company systems. Support packaging change control by ensuring suppliers are working from current, approved specifications and revisions. Assist with coordination of packaging updates related to material changes, dimensional changes, or supplier transitions. Request and track packaging samples, pre-production approvals, and reference standards as needed. Maintain accurate purchasing and inventory records in ERP/MRP and inventory management systems. Reconcile purchase orders, receipts, and invoices as needed. Support reporting related to packaging spend, inventory adjustments, and supplier performance. Serve as backup support for ingredient or chemical purchasing only as needed.

Education, Skills and Experience Needed:

Required Associate's degree in business, supply chain, finance, economics, or a related field. 2-3 years of experience in purchasing, manufacturing, supply chain, or related environments. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and/or Google Suite. Familiarity with inventory management systems and MRP purchasing processes. Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills. Ability to work independently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Experience supporting supplier relationships, including coordination with international vendors across different time zones. Preferred Experience with cosmetic or consumer packaged goods packaging. Familiarity with QuickBooks or comparable ERP systems. Exposure to international sourcing, including overseas packaging suppliers, freight timelines, and extended lead times. Basic understanding of international logistics considerations (e.g., production lead times, transit times, Incoterms, or customs documentation) is a plus. Basic understanding of packaging materials and supplier lead times.

Benefits:

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

Work Location:

In person