Category Buyer 1 in Woodland, Washington at RAINIER PURE BEEF COMPANY

In this role, you will support procurement activities across assigned categories by managing supplier relationships, supporting category strategies, and ensuring the timely purchase of goods that meet quality, service, and cost expectations.

The Category Buyer I works closely with internal stakeholders to understand business needs, monitor market conditions, and execute purchasing decisions that support operational continuity and value creation. This position plays an important role in maintaining reliable supply and supporting cross-functional collaboration.

If you take pride in doing quality work, are dependable, and enjoy working as part of a collaborative team, we’d like to hear from you. Whether you’re experienced or entering the field for the first time, we provide comprehensive training, clear expectations, and opportunities for long-term growth.

Key Responsibilities

Category & Supplier Management

• Support the development and execution of category strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Identify, evaluate, and assist with onboarding suppliers as needed.
• Assist with negotiating pricing, terms, and volume commitments to ensure competitive and reliable supply.
• Maintain positive working relationships with suppliers and address performance issues as they arise.

Procurement & Planning

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand departmental requirements and develop procurement plans.
• Ensure timely ordering and delivery of goods to support operational needs.
• Monitor supplier performance related to quality, service, and responsiveness.

Market Awareness & Analysis

• Monitor market trends, pricing movements, and industry developments relevant to assigned categories.
• Analyze purchasing data and supplier information to support informed decision-making.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, risk mitigation, or process improvement.

Quality & Specification Alignment

• Work closely with internal stakeholders to ensure purchased products meet specifications and quality standards.
• Support resolution of quality concerns in coordination with suppliers and internal teams.

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in purchasing, procurement, or a related role.

Technical Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Working knowledge of market dynamics and supplier management
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and purchasing or ERP systems
• Ability to manage multiple priorities independently
• Strong written and verbal communication and negotiation skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field.
• Ability to build and maintain professional, productive relationships with suppliers while holding them accountable to quality, cost, and service expectations.
• Comfortable participating in pricing discussions, contract terms, and volume commitments, with an understanding of total cost and long-term value rather than price alone.
• Ability to analyze purchasing data, pricing trends, and supplier performance metrics to support informed decision-making and recommendations.
• Willingness to learn new systems, categories, or processes and adapt as business needs evolve.