Associate Buyer – Packaging Supply Chain

E-Verify Program

Associate Buyer supporting sourcing and procurement of packaging materials while collaborating cross-functionally. Developing core purchasing, supplier management, and inventory planning skills.

Posted 7/9/2026full-timeOak Brook • Illinois • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $55,000 - $67,000 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

ERP

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Process requisitions and create purchase orders for packaging materials
Review specifications, obtain quotes, and document competitive bids
Track order confirmations, pricing, and delivery timelines
Monitor backorders and proactively expedite critical materials
Communicate with suppliers to confirm order status and ensure delivery commitments
Support negotiation of pricing and lead times
Build and maintain strong supplier relationships
Monitor vendor performance and escalate issues as needed
Analyze MRP outputs to place timely and accurate orders
Help maintain appropriate inventory levels based on demand signals
Track inbound shipments and communicate updates to stakeholders
Maintain accurate vendor, pricing, and item data within ERP systems (e.g., SAP)
Ensure purchasing documentation is complete and compliant
Support documentation updates and internal recordkeeping standards
Resolve vendor invoice discrepancies in partnership with Accounts Payable
Partner with Quality to address supplier quality issues and returns
Support adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and SOPs
Partner with Production, Operations, Quality, and Receiving teams
Communicate material availability, risks, and delivery timelines
Contribute ideas to improve purchasing processes, data accuracy, and supplier reliability
Build knowledge of packaging supply chain processes and apply learnings to daily work

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, Operations, or related field preferred
0–2 years of experience in purchasing, supply chain, or operations
Internship experience in supply chain, particularly in procurement or purchasing, is a strong plus
Exposure to manufacturing or regulated environments is a plus
Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (filters, pivot tables, XLOOKUP/VLOOKUP)
Analytical mindset with ability to interpret basic supply and demand signals
Effective written communication and stakeholder collaboration skills
Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines
Comfortable working independently with a proactive, self-directed approach
Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems is a plus
APICS/CSCP certification is a plus.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical coverage
Insurance
Financial benefits

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

Purchase Order CreationMRP AnalysisInventory ManagementVendor Performance MonitoringNegotiation SkillsData AccuracySupply Chain ProcessesOrder TrackingSpecification ReviewCompetitive Bidding

Soft Skills

Effective CommunicationStakeholder CollaborationProactive ApproachTask PrioritizationIndependent Work

Certifications

APICS CertificationCSCP Certification