Procurement Specialist

Why You’ll Love Working Here

Join a farmer-owned cooperative rooted in integrity, sustainability, and a passion for providing fresh, high-quality Maola dairy products. We prioritize your well-being with competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package available within your first month.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• 401(k) with employer match
• Life Insurance
• Paid time off

Our employees are an integral part of who we are—what you do and what you think matters.

About the Role

As a Procurement Specialist, you will source, purchase, and procure goods and services essential for the organization’s operations. You will collaborate with various departments to understand their needs, identify suitable suppliers, review contracts, and ensure timely delivery of products and services while maintaining cost-efficiency and quality standards. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to build and maintain relationships with vendors and suppliers.

Responsibilities

• Source and evaluate suppliers/vendors based on price, quality, and delivery speed.
• Review contracts with the Senior Procurement Manager and provide feedback on needed changes.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their procurement needs and requirements.
• Analyze market trends, supply base, and industry best practices to identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement.
• Maintain accurate records of purchases, pricing, and inventory on hand.
• Compile monthly inventory counts, enter data into spreadsheets for reconciliation, and ensure accuracy of data and documentation.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements throughout the procurement process.
• Monitor supplier performance and address any issues or concerns related to quality, delivery, or pricing.
• Manage relationships with key suppliers, foster long-term partnerships, and resolve disputes when necessary.
• Coordinate with receiving and inventory teams to ensure timely receipt and inspection of purchased goods.
• Provide feedback and updates on procurement activities, including cost savings initiatives and supplier performance.
• Stay informed about market changes, new products, and emerging trends in procurement and supply chain management.
• Participate in cross-functional teams and projects to support organizational goals and initiatives.
• Utilize analytical, creative, or problem-solving techniques to support organizational goals, initiatives, or supplier relationships.
• Manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business or related field and at least 2 years of related experience OR 6 years of purchasing experience.
• At least 2 years of experience with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards related to procurement and supply chain management (preferred).
• At least 2 years of experience with Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and an ERP system. SAP experience is preferred.
• At least 2 years of experience with procurement processes, contract management, and supplier relationship management.

Skills & Competencies

• Communication: Clearly and effectively communicate through multiple channels—oral, written, visual, and non-verbal—ensuring messages are understood and delivered appropriately, whether in-person or digitally.
• Accountability: Take responsibility for actions and anticipate challenges before they arise. Solve problems both within and outside of departments, proactively addressing issues as they occur.
• Customer Focused: Prioritize understanding and meeting both internal and external customer needs. Ensure high levels of satisfaction and loyalty by anticipating customer requirements and striving for exceptional service.
• Initiative: Proactive in identifying opportunities and addressing potential threats. Act independently and decisively, rather than waiting for situations to demand action.
• Problem-Solving: Identify and address complex issues with minimal guidance. Skilled at analyzing challenges and finding practical, effective solutions.
• Collaboration: Take responsibility for deliverables while supporting others to ensure collective goals are met. Work harmoniously with others toward a common goal, recognizing and valuing each person’s contributions.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk and hear.
• Frequently required to stand and walk.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision for computer work and the ability to adjust focus.
• May occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Normal office environmental conditions.
• Moderate noise level (e.g., computers, printers, light traffic).

Pay

Starting salary range: $65,000 – $80,000.

About Maola

Maola Local Dairies® is a farmer-owned cooperative sustainably producing a full suite of nutritious dairy products. We process milk, cream, butter, and dry milk powders through our network of six dairy processing plants. With a keen eye on quality, freshness, and love for the environment, Maola delivers dairy products that are both nutritious and sustainable to our local communities. For more information, visit www.maolamilk.com.