Procurement Specialist

Company: American Kitchen Delights Inc
Location: Harvey
Posted on: April 3, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Procurement SpecialistLocation 15320 Cooper Avenue, Harvey IL 60426 Department: Operations / Supply Chain Employment Type: Full-TimeJob Summary American Kitchen Delights is seeking a detail-oriented Procurement Specialist to lead and manage all purchasing and sourcing activities for our food manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for ensuring the timely, cost-effective, and compliant procurement of raw materials, ingredients, packaging, and services necessary to meet production, quality, and food safety requirements. The Procurement Manager plays a critical cross-functional role, collaborating closely with Operations, Production Planning, Quality Assurance, Logistics, Accounting, and Product Development to maintain uninterrupted supply, optimize inventory levels, and support business growth initiatives. Key ResponsibilitiesProcurement & Strategic Sourcing - Lead procurement and strategic sourcing activities to support manufacturing demand while optimizing cost, quality, service levels, and supplier reliability. - Develop and execute optimal ordering schedules based on production forecasts, lead times, vendor payment terms, freight considerations, and inventory targets. - Maintain accurate and up-to-date item pricing and acquisition cost data within the purchasing and inventory systems. - Identify, evaluate, qualify, and onboard new suppliers in collaboration with Quality Assurance and Product Development. Vendor & Supplier Management - Build and maintain strong, professional relationships with suppliers and vendors to ensure consistent supply and service excellence. - Negotiate pricing, contracts, terms, and service agreements to achieve best-value purchasing outcomes. - Resolve supplier-related issues including quality concerns, delivery delays, shortages, rejected materials, or non-conformance events. - Monitor supplier performance metrics including on-time delivery, quality, responsiveness, and cost competitiveness. Inventory & Demand Planning - Review, analyze, and manage inventory reports, sales projections, and production schedules to align purchasing with demand. - Collaborate with inventory control, production planning, and accounting teams to establish and maintain inventory level targets throughout the year. - Develop and improve purchasing and inventory scheduling processes using existing inventory management systems. - Recommend inventory adjustments to prevent stockouts, overstocking, or expired materials. Cross-Functional Collaboration - Work closely with Production Control, Scheduling, Logistics, and Accounting to ensure materials are ordered, received, and accurately accounted for. - Communicate product availability, supply constraints, or risk items to Sales and Marketing teams on a regular basis. - Support new product launches, reformulations, and product line extensions by ensuring timely material sourcing and supply chain readiness. Compliance, Food Safety & Quality - Ensure all procurement activities comply with company policies, food safety standards, and regulatory requirements including GMP, HACCP, SSOP, and SQF. - Maintain high standards of hygiene, cleanliness, and quality awareness in all procurement-related activities. Additional Duties - Support continuous improvement initiatives related to procurement efficiency, cost savings, and supplier performance. - Perform other duties as assigned to support operational needs. Qualifications & RequirementsEducation & Experience - Previous experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management, preferably within food manufacturing or food service environments. - Experience negotiating with suppliers and managing vendor relationships. Skills & Competencies - Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills. - Excellent organizational, time management, and prioritization abilities. - High attention to detail with a strong focus on quality and accuracy. - Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word; experience with inventory systems preferred. - Solid mathematical and data analysis skills. - Ability to read, understand, and follow written and verbal instructions, procedures, and documentation. - Effective communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments. - Ability to work a flexible schedule and overtime as needed to meet business demands. Physical & Work Environment Requirements - Ability to work in a food manufacturing environment where hygiene, cleanliness, and food safety are critical. - Willingness to comply with all safety, sanitation, and PPE requirements. Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - Closed-toed shoes - Hairnet (when applicable) - Frock (when applicable) - Gloves (when applicable) - Beard net (when applicable) Why Join American Kitchen Delights? - Be part of a family-owned growing food manufacturing company with a commitment to quality and innovation - Collaborative, team-oriented work environment - Opportunity to make a direct impact on operational efficiency and business growth

Keywords: American Kitchen Delights Inc, Lombard , Procurement Specialist, Manufacturing , Harvey, Illinois