About Us Founded in 1991, Seattle Chocolate Company has been crafting bars and bonbons from day one. As a women-owned company, we're committed to sustainable practices and giving back to the farmers who make our chocolate possible. Our two brands, Maeve and jcoco, offer a range of flavor inclusions from approachable to sophisticated, appealing to every kind of chocolate lover. We believe in working hard and having fun along the way, and we're looking for team members who want to build a lasting career and grow alongside us. Learn more at maevechocolate.com Job Summary The Buyer manages the purchasing of materials and/or services to support Seattle Chocolate Company's purchasing processes, including indirect materials and services, fixed assets and tooling, and production materials and services. The Buyer supports source selection and procurement functions to secure products and services at competitive cost, quality, and delivery levels consistent with company policy and performance standards. This role also manages the timely planning, scheduling, and inventory control of assigned products and services within the company's ERP/MRP system (Syspro). Schedule Worked This is a full-time role, fully on-site. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 4:00pm. Compensation This role ranges from $37.00 - $41.00 per hour, DOE. Core Responsibilities Includes the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Purchasing & Order Management:

Creates and submits purchase orders and PO amendments for ingredients, packaging, and supplies using Syspro; compares POs against supplier acknowledgements and modifies as necessary. Coordinates purchase order receipt scheduling and inventory control parameters and assists with maintaining accurate inventory records and reorder points in the ERP system. Collects and maintains all required documentation associated with purchase orders.

Sourcing & Supplier Negotiation:

Gathers and compares supplier/vendor quotes on price, quality, and delivery timing; negotiates prices and terms with guidance from the VP of Operations, and shares findings with the Operations team. Studies market pricing trends, R&D developments, and manufacturing methods to inform sourcing decisions. Interviews and confers with current and prospective suppliers to assess supply capabilities, transportation logistics, and inventory management. Sources sample products from suppliers as needed for R&D, ensuring samples meet Seattle Chocolate Company's requirements; arranges submission and inspection of samples. Visits supplier facilities to qualify new sources and assists in resolving production, design, quality, or delivery issues. Develops and maintains relationships with contractors and vendors to promote efficient, cost-effective operations.

Supplier Communication & Issue Resolution:

Communicates with current suppliers on order status, delivery updates, and basic quality concerns, escalating issues as needed. Coordinates quality matters and changes/developments between company operations and suppliers, as needed. Manages returns and credits with suppliers.

Compliance & Quality:

Supports supplier approval processes by gathering documentation for Scientific Affairs team. Collects and maintains all Kosher certificates, including coordinating yearly renewals

Cross-Functional Coordination:

Checks in regularly with cross-functional teams to keep purchasing timelines aligned with production schedules. Maintains close coordination to ensure timely execution of sourcing activities. Education and Experience A Bachelor of Arts (BA degree) is preferred with emphasis on business administration. This role requires 3-4 years of proven experience in purchasing and materials control, and a general understanding of inventory control in the manufacturing environment. Desired Skills Strong negotiation, analytical, and vendor management skills. Working knowledge of food safety and certification requirements (e.g., Kosher, organic, FDA/FSMA) relevant to ingredient and packaging sourcing. Proficient in Microsoft Excel and ERP/MRP software, Syspro experience a plus. Experience with leveraging AI tools to increase productivity, streamline workflows and enhance quality of work. Strong written and verbal communication skills; comfortable interfacing with suppliers and internal team members at all levels. Detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. Sound judgment with the ability to escalate appropriately to the team. Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities and/or under a medical professional's guidance to perform the essential functions. This position operates in a professional office environment and involves routine use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and photocopiers/printers Candidates are expected to: Regularly required to sit for extended periods while working at a computer Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling materials Occasional standing, walking, bending, or reaching to access files, equipment, or supplies Ability to lift and carry up to 10 lbs. occasionally Regularly required to talk and hear, both in person and via phone/video calls Close visual acuity required for extended screen work, including reading, review, and computer tasks

Pay:

$37.00 - $41.00 per hour Expected hours: No less than 40.0 per week

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Health insurance Health savings account Paid time off Referral program Vision insurance Application Question(s): Have you worked within the food manufacturing industry?

Experience:

Purchasing /

Buying:

3 years (Required)

Work Location:

In person