JOB DETAILS

Buyer

CompanyELEMENT FOOD SOLUTIONS LLC
LocationHodgkins
Work ModeOn Site
PostedJanuary 3, 2026
About The Company
Element Food Solutions is a dry blend products supplier with diversified, better-for-you ingredients and a packaging solutions provider for the food industry. Our commercialization expertise in handling specialty dry blend ingredients and agglomeration technologies provides focused, customer solution-based execution. We bring world class manufacturing while partnering to deliver on-trend products and packaging. We offer gluten-free and allergen-segregated processing options and nutritional claim know-how. Dynamic capabilities with an SQF-certified facility allows us to lead product, processing and packaging innovations for retail, foodservice and industrial customers.
About the Role

Job Details

Level: Experienced
Job Location: Chicago - Hodgkins, IL 60525
Position Type: Full Time
Job Shift: Day

Summary of Job

*This is a temporary position*

The Buyer ensures that materials are ordered and delivered within the window needed to support the operation.  The buyer is multi-faceted, must be able to multi-task, have above average computer knowledge and the ability to work in a team environment that is fast paced and ever changing.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Initiate purchase orders for ingredients and packaging items
  • Generate inbound POs for customer inbounds
  • Close open inbound POs
  • Work through weekly MRP to determine orders to place, move up, move back
  • Coordinate with dock scheduling
  • Assist with new item/vendor set ups
  • Track late orders and communicate with production
  • Provide forecasts to vendors as needed
  • Place orders for materials in customer systems (i.e. SAP) based off MRP & customer demand schedule BOM breakdown
  • Request COAs from customer if inbound comes without
  • Checks on inbounds that miss appointments or don't show up
  • Customer weekly meetings to attend and review shortages.
  • Analytical forecast reviews and dashboards management
  • RMA and returns to vendors.
  • KPI’s follow up and management
  • Running shortage report daily

Qualifications


Education and Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Global Supply Chain Preferred or related field, or equivalent work experience in a similar role
  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in purchasing/materials management (food related preferred)
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
  • Oracle, SAP or M3 Infor, BAAN or related system experience.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with competing priorities.
  • Strong computer and Excel skills
  • Experience with MRP and manufacturing environment desired

 

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit for long periods of time and possibly some standing, walking or bending
  • Ability to use computers
  • Ability to work in various environments, such as office or warehouse

Technical Skills

  • Windows 10/11: Ability to install, configure, troubleshoot, and upgrade the operating system and its features
  • Windows Server 2012/2016/2019: Ability to install, configure, troubleshoot, and upgrade the server operating system and its features, such as Active Directory, Exchange, DNS, DHCP, etc.
  • Active Directory: Ability to create and maintain user accounts, distribution lists, security groups, and network shared folders
  • Exchange: Ability to create and maintain email accounts, mailboxes, calendars, contacts, and distribution lists
  • TCP/IP Networking: Ability to understand and apply the basic concepts of networking, such as IP addressing, subnetting, routing, switching, etc.
  • Internet Applications: Ability to use and troubleshoot various internet applications, such as IE, Chrome, Firefox, etc.
  • Hardware: Ability to deploy, configure, troubleshoot, and upgrade various hardware devices, such as PC, laptops, mobile devices, printers, scanners, etc.
  • Software: Ability to install, configure, troubleshoot, and upgrade various software applications, such as MS Office, antivirus, backup, etc.
  • Network Cabling: Ability to install and terminate network cabling, such as RJ45 and Patch Panels, and to troubleshoot network connectivity issues
  • Documentation: Ability to create and maintain accurate and detailed documentation, such as procedures, guides, inventory, etc., using MS Office and other tools

Soft Skills:

  • Communication: Buyers need to communicate effectively with internal teams, suppliers, and customers. 
  • Negotiation: Strong negotiation skills are crucial for securing favorable prices and terms with suppliers. 
  • Interpersonal Skills: Building and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers is essential for long-term success. 
  • Analytical Skills: Analyzing market trends, identifying opportunities, and evaluating supplier performance require strong analytical skills. 
  • Stress Management: Buyers often work under pressure, requiring the ability to stay calm and make sound decisions. 
  • Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing market conditions and priorities is crucial for long-term success. 
  • Decision-Making: Buyers need to make timely and informed decisions, weighing various factors and options. 

Hard Skills:

  • Procurement Knowledge: Understanding of procurement processes, including sourcing, negotiation, and contract management. 
  • Market Research: Ability to research and analyze market trends, identify new suppliers, and understand customer needs. 
  • Inventory Management: Knowledge of inventory control, ordering systems, and managing stock levels. 
  • Math Skills: Proficiency in calculations, budgeting, and financial analysis. 
  • IT Skills: Competence in using relevant software, such as ERP systems, procurement software, and Microsoft Office. 
  • Data Analysis: Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions. 
  • Supplier Management: Ability to manage supplier relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure timely delivery. 

Food Safety Responsibilities:

  • Follow all relevant food safety rules including SQF, GMPs, and Food Defense.
  • Report any observed food safety violations to your supervisor immediately.

 

Core Benefits

  • Basic Life Insurance
  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Leave
  • Holiday Paid

Voluntary Benefits

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Pet Insurance
  • 401 k (matching)
  • Accident
  • Critical Illness
  • Wellness
  • Gym membership

Job Type:

  • Full-time

Pay:

  • Range $24.00- $26.00 per hour

Schedule:

  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday
  • Weekends (as needed)
Key Skills
PurchasingMaterials ManagementOrganizational SkillsComputer SkillsExcel SkillsMRPAnalytical SkillsNegotiationInterpersonal SkillsDecision-MakingInventory ManagementSupplier ManagementFood SafetyMarket ResearchData Analysis
Categories
LogisticsFood & BeverageManufacturingAdministrativeConsulting
Benefits
Basic Life InsuranceShort Term DisabilityLong Term DisabilityPaid Time OffPaid LeaveHoliday PaidMedical InsuranceDental InsuranceVision InsuranceLife InsurancePet Insurance401 KAccidentCritical IllnessWellnessGym Membership
Job Information
📋Core Responsibilities
The Buyer is responsible for ensuring that materials are ordered and delivered on time to support operations. This includes initiating purchase orders, coordinating with vendors, and tracking orders.
📋Job Type
full time
💰Salary Range
$24 - $26
📊Experience Level
5-10
💼Company Size
38
📊Visa Sponsorship
No
💼Language
English
🏢Working Hours
40 hours
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