Astrix ยท 1 day ago
Packaging Category Buyer
St Louis, MO
Contract
Onsite
Mid Level
$32/hr - $36/hr
3+ years expAstrix is seeking a Packaging Category Buyer to manage the procurement of packaging and raw materials essential for plant operations. The role involves supplier management, strategic sourcing, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure timely material supply and cost-saving initiatives.
ConsultingInformation Technology
Responsibilities
Purchase packaging and raw material components required for plant operations using ERP/MRP systems (Ross/Aptean)
Create accurate purchase orders and ensure on-time material receipt in alignment with production planning
Monitor inventory levels and prepare purchasing schedules to maintain 'just-in-time' supply
Verify purchase requisitions, compare requirements to master lists, clarify unclear items, and recommend alternatives
Negotiate cash discounts, volume pricing, contract terms, and OEM agreements to support cost savings goals
Research, evaluate, and qualify suppliers based on pricing, service, quality, capability, reliability, and market reputation
Conduct strategic sourcing initiatives to reduce spend, support continuous improvement, and reduce supply chain risk
Negotiate and execute supply agreements and category contracts
Maintain vendor performance records including pricing histories and operational issues
Track commodity markets (fiberboard, resin, steel, etc.) and key cost drivers affecting the packaging category
Maintain master lists of all packaging components; monitor monthly cost fluctuations and communicate changes to Accounting and Sales
Design new packaging components (poly drums, liners, super sacks, cartons, fiber drums) for customers and internal use
Create, implement, and reconcile annual RFQs to meet organizational cost-saving initiatives
Meet annual cost-saving targets established by the Purchasing Manager and Executive Team
Attend weekly production planning meetings and coordinate lead times, shipment schedules, and quantity requirements with Planning and Sales teams
Work closely with Production, Quality, Accounting, and other departments to ensure purchasing needs are met
Develop procedures for receiving and verification of goods; resolve shipment discrepancies with suppliers
Prepare PowerPoint presentations for Executive leadership and Board-level reviews when requested
Collect, analyze, and summarize purchasing data and trends to support decision-making and forecasting
Maintain accessible, accurate purchasing documentation and files
Follow established purchasing policies and assist in updating procedures when necessary
Complete additional tasks assigned by Management to support the improvement of Jost operations
Qualification
Required
Associate or Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, Purchasing, or related field required
Minimum 3 years of purchasing experience using ERP/MRP systems (preferably in food/pharma manufacturing or distribution)
Strong analytical and mathematical skills
Excellent written and verbal communication
High attention to detail and organizational accuracy
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint required)
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Strong negotiation skills with experience managing RFQs, contracts, and supplier performance
Purchasing processes, procurement policy compliance, and strategic sourcing methodology
Inventory monitoring, planning, and delivery scheduling
Supplier evaluation based on price, quality, service, and performance history
Research, evaluate, and select suppliers using qualitative and quantitative criteria
Expedite orders and resolve shipment discrepancies
Support organizational goals through cost savings initiatives and effective procurement decisions
Maintain accurate purchasing documentation, records, and reporting tools
Preferred
Purchasing or supply chain certification (e.g., CSPM)
Company
Astrix
Astrix is the unrivaled market-leader in creating & delivering innovative strategies, solutions, and people to the life science community.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Dale Curtis
Chief Executive Officer
Reid E. Simpson
Chief Financial Officer
Recent News
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