What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing Specialist position at AFCO Distribution & Milling?
AFCO Distribution & Milling
Purchasing Specialist
Spokane Valley, WA
AFCO Distribution & Milling, based in Spokane Valley, WA, has been supporting farms and feed stores across the Northwest for the last 90 years. We are proud to be part of Skagit Farmers Supply, an agricultural cooperative established in 1934 in Washington's Skagit Valley. We are guided by a board of directors comprising five local farmers, who are deeply rooted in the community and committed to agriculture.
Skagit Farmers Supply’s operations include retail Country Stores, fuel services, agronomy, propane delivery, and AFCO’s distribution and milling operations. We distribute quality products to feed and pet supply retailers across the Northwest, ensuring that farms and pets thrive.
JOB DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assesses inventory reports and order patterns to identify items in need of automatic, recurring delivery.
- Provides detailed inventory and purchasing reports to management.
- Sources and maintains accurate product information and images for items we purchase and sell.
- Collaborates with Sales and Operations Departments to ensure smooth procurement processes and accurate forecasting.
- Develops and maintains good working relationships with vendors.
- Establishes and maintains backup suppliers for high-demand or critical items to prevent supply chain disruptions.
- Manages and maintains the inventory system, ensuring data accuracy and facilitating software/database upgrades under the direction of the Purchasing Manager.
- Ensures compliance with company quality standards and industry regulations for all procured goods.
- Collaborates with other staff to research, troubleshoot, and resolve procurement or inventory-related issues.
- Trains employees on inventory and procurement systems to ensure proper and efficient usage.
- Monitors procurement costs and identifies opportunities for cost savings and process improvements.
- Exhibit an ability to receive feedback, adapt to new processes and continuously develop skills.
- Demonstrate the ability to collaborate, communicate well and effectively relay information with an emphasis on developing positive professional relationships.
- Practice punctual and reliable attendance.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
JOB REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field or equivalent experience preferred.
- 2 years of related experience.
- Possess a valid driver license and maintain a safe driving record.
- Pass a pre-employment drug screen as a condition of employment.
- Demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Windows and Office.
- Commitment to excellence and high standards.
- Demonstrate strong organizational, multi-tasking, problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Physical ability to lift, carry, push and pull up to 60 pounds.
- Proven track record of being dependable and reliable.
- Professional appearance and demeanor.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Product knowledge in one or more of the following areas preferred: livestock or equine products, pet food & supplies or any related knowledge pertaining to our product mix.
SCHEDULE
This is a full-time position, typically Monday – Friday, 40 hours/week. Must be available to work evening and weekends as needed.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
$25-$30 hourly. After meeting eligibility requirements, benefits include:
- Medical Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Paid Vacation*
- Sick Pay
- 9 Paid Holidays
- 401(k) Retirement Match
- Employee Discounts
- Dependent Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program
- Employee Profit Sharing
*Two to six weeks annually, depending on length of full-time service.
TO APPLY
Please visit our careers page at https://www.afcodistribution.com/career-opportunities/ to apply for employment. We look forward to hearing from you!
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Referral program
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
Education:
- Bachelor's (Preferred)
Experience:
- purchasing: 2 years (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Spokane Valley, WA 99206 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $25 - $30