• Packaging Category Buyer

    Astrix Technology (St. Louis, MO)


    Packaging Category Buyer

     

    Supply Chain & Logistics

     

    St. Louis, MO, US

     

    + Added - 11/12/2025

    Apply for Job

    + **Pay** : $32-36/hr

    + **Hours** : 8a-5p M-F

    + **Terms** : 6 month contract-to-hire

    Key Responsibilities

    Purchasing & Procurement

    + 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.

    Supplier Management & Strategic Sourcing

    + 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.

    Category Management

    + 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.

    Cross-Functional Collaboration

    + 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.

    Reporting & Analysis

    + 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.

    General

    + Follow established purchasing policies and assist in updating procedures when necessary.

    + Complete additional tasks assigned by Management to support the improvement of Jost operations.

    Qualifications

    Education

    + Associate or Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, Purchasing, or related field required.

    Experience

    + Minimum 3 years of purchasing experience using ERP/MRP systems (preferably in food/pharma manufacturing or distribution).

    + Purchasing or supply chain certification (e.g., CSPM) preferred.

    Skills & Competencies

    + 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.

    Knowledge

    + 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.

    Abilities

    + 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.

    INDBH

    We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.