Buyer in Lafayette, Louisiana at Gold Star Foods

TITLE: Buyer
DIVISION: Purchasing
REPORTS TO: Purchasing Manager
FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Exempt/Salaried

COMPANY OVERVIEW

LAMM Food Service, founded in 1972 and based in Lafayette, Louisiana, is a broadline food distributor that specializes in delivering high-quality food products and exceptional customer service. They serve a diverse range of customers, including restaurants, convenience stores, schools, correctional facilities, and more, primarily throughout Louisiana and parts of Texas.

POSITION OVERVIEW

We’re seeking a proactive and detail-driven Buyer to join our Purchasing team. In this key role, you’ll help drive cost-effective purchasing, strengthen supplier partnerships, and support smooth, efficient operations across multiple departments. It’s an excellent opportunity for a motivated professional ready to make an impact in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Source, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors and suppliers to achieve optimal pricing, quality, and service levels.
• Develop, manage, and strengthen relationships with suppliers to ensure reliability and accountability.
• Collaborate with internal teams to understand purchasing requirements and align strategies with operational and business goals.
• Monitor inventory levels, lead times, and product demand to prevent stockouts and overages.
• Analyze purchasing and market data to identify cost savings, process efficiencies, and improvement opportunities.
• Participate in vendor performance reviews and provide recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Proactively manage risks and mitigate potential supply chain disruptions by developing alternative sourcing options.
• Stay informed of industry trends, pricing shifts, and market developments to guide purchasing strategies.
• Maintain accurate and organized purchasing documentation, pricing data, and delivery records.
• Support procurement policy updates and compliance with company procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Purchasing Manager or Senior Buyer.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• 2–4 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management.

• Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Business, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred (or equivalent professional experience).
• Proven success in vendor relationship management and strategic negotiation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to accuracy and detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and purchasing systems or ERP software.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of procurement ethics, policies, and compliance requirements.

Salary: $70,000-$80,000

WHY JOIN LAMM?

• Be part of an industry leader serving communities across the nation.
• Enjoy a collaborative culture where your ideas and contributions matter.
• Growth and advancement opportunities within a rapidly expanding organization.
• Competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and meaningful work with a purpose.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Professional office environment.  Primary office environment is ambient room temperatures, lighting and traditional office equipment as found in a typical office environment. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties of the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Individuals may need to sit or stand as needed.  May require walking primarily on a level surface for periods throughout the day.   Reaching above shoulder heights, below the waist, or lifting as required to file documents or store materials throughout the workday.  Proper lifting techniques are required.  May include lifting up to 25 pounds on occasion.

EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED