Assistant Buyer / Procurement Specialist

Job Purpose

The Assistant Buyer / Procurement Specialist supports the purchasing and supply chain functions for a high‑volume seafood processing operation. This role ensures that raw materials, packaging, ingredients, and operational supplies are sourced on time, at the right quality, and at the best possible value. The position requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with production, quality assurance, vendors, and logistics partners in a fast‑paced, multicultural environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Other duties may be assigned.)

Procurement & Purchasing

Source and purchase seafood raw materials, packaging, ingredients, and plant supplies in alignment with production schedules and inventory targets.

Obtain and compare quotes, negotiate pricing, and evaluate supplier capabilities to ensure cost‑effective purchasing.

Prepare purchase orders, track order status, and resolve discrepancies in quantity, quality, or delivery.

Maintain accurate purchasing records, vendor files, and contract documentation.

Vendor & Supplier Coordination

Build and maintain strong relationships with domestic and international suppliers.

Communicate daily with vendors regarding availability, lead times, pricing, and shipment updates.

Assist in evaluating supplier performance related to quality, reliability, compliance, and service.

Support onboarding of new suppliers, including documentation, certifications, and compliance requirements.

Inventory & Production Support

Monitor inventory levels and collaborate with production planners to anticipate material needs.

Coordinate with warehouse and receiving teams to ensure timely delivery and proper documentation.

Assist in cycle counts, stock reconciliations, and identifying slow‑moving or obsolete inventory.

Respond quickly to production shortages or urgent material needs.

Quality & Compliance

Ensure all purchased materials meet company specifications, food safety standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, HACCP, BAP, MSC).

Work closely with Quality Assurance to resolve quality issues or non‑conforming materials.

Maintain supplier documentation such as COAs, SDS, sustainability certifications, and traceability records.

Logistics & Coordination

Coordinate inbound shipments, freight arrangements, and customs documentation for imported seafood or materials.

Track shipments and proactively address delays, temperature‑control issues, or transportation challenges.

Support cost‑saving initiatives related to freight, packaging, and supplier consolidation.

Skills & Qualifications

Experience in purchasing, procurement, supply chain, or inventory management (seafood or food manufacturing preferred).

Strong negotiation, communication, and vendor‑relationship skills.

Ability to work effectively with multicultural teams and adapt communication for diverse audiences.

Proficiency in ERP systems, purchasing software, and Microsoft Excel.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

Understanding food safety, traceability, and regulatory requirements is a plus.

Bilingual skills (e.g., Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese, or other languages common in seafood processing) are highly valued.

Work Environment

Fast‑paced production facility with shifting priorities based on harvest cycles, customer demand, and supply availability.

Frequent collaboration with production, QA, warehouse, and management teams.

Occasional vendor visits, plant walk‑throughs, and coordination with international suppliers across time zones.

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