Packaging & Procurement Specialist at Elgen Staffing

Our client, a nationwide healthy snack manufacturer and distributor, has an immediate need for an experienced Packaging & Procurement Specialist, to join our winning team in Hackettstown. Our candidate of choice will be responsible for managing the sourcing, sizing, purchasing, and delivery of packaging materials used in our production process (with an emphasis on flexible packaging), ensuring timely and cost-effective procurement. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Ensure sufficient materials are available as needed, without significant overstocking. Use sales projections and historical SKU mix to model out material needs by SKU. Translate production targets into material requirements (e.g., X bags of Y chip = Z pouches, etc.). Build in ordering buffer based on lead times of different vendors. Maintain a live model that adjusts as forecasts change and communicate needs to vendors proactively. Secure reliable and efficient suppliers for all necessary materials. Vet, negotiate, and onboard new suppliers of packaging materials. Maintain strong, positive relationships with both new and existing suppliers, ensuring that all communication is clear, friendly, and productive. Maintain redundancy in our suppliers in case one should have issues. Ensure material orders are received with sufficient time to prevent delays in production. Place orders based on production needs and ensure materials are received by the required deadlines. Monitor and manage lead times and follow up frequently to ensure timely delivery. Handle any delays or issues with suppliers promptly and professionally. Get the best value for materials purchased. Negotiate pricing and purchase terms with suppliers where applicable. Regularly review supplier contracts and seek opportunities to reduce costs without compromising quality. Keep production well-stocked without excess inventory. Act as a backup to the production team, ensuring that materials are replenished in a timely manner to prevent shortages. Coordinate with the warehouse team to ensure proper material tracking and storage. Ensure received materials meet our quality standards and resolve issues quickly if they don’t. Inspect materials upon delivery to ensure they meet the required specifications. Address any quality issues directly with the suppliers to resolve them efficiently. Ensure smooth and efficient inbound shipments. Work with logistics partners to organize freight and coordinate deliveries. Ensure clear communication between suppliers and freight carriers to guarantee timely and accurate shipments. Maintain accurate records for all procurement activities. Log all purchase orders, deliveries, and invoices. Work with the accounting team to ensure accurate and timely payment of invoices. Keep all our specs and artwork organized Maintain database of artwork and proofs, keep them up to date, communicate artwork files to vendors, maintain records of ordered bags in conformance with the designs. Maintain updated list of sizing and material requirements for all flexible packaging. Ensure artwork is updated as needed Coordinate with brand/product teams to determine artwork updates, communicate updates to designers, get approvals and feedback. Approve proofs, make sure colors are correct, etc. KEY REQUIREMENTS: 4+ years of experience in procurement/vendor management/purchasing of flexible packaging for a CPG manufacturing company, or account management/back office/operations for packaging supplier company. Experience with graphic-designed packaging (pouches, bags, printed boxes) is a must. Ability to reliably commute to our factory in Hackettstown, NJ (4 days in office minimum) Strong analytical and modeling skills. Can take mathematical assumptions and produce compelling projections based on them. Requires decent proficiency in excel and arithmetic Familiarity or better with graphic design tools and knowledge is a requirement: Pantone, Adobe Illustrator, etc. Strong communication skills: both verbal and written. Excellent organizational skills with a keen eye for detail. Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously. Tech-savvy with experience in: Google Drive Excel/Google Sheets MRP/ERP software A personal passion for health, wellness, fitness, or food is a plus. WE OFFER: Above-market base compensation Performance Bonus Health insurance A health and wellness-focused culture All the chips you can eat! Please apply today for an immediate interview! Elgen staffing is the fastest growing staffing agency in Bergen County, New Jersey. With a deep understanding of today's hiring trends and technologies we have the ability to leverage the most effective recruiting methods to find the best candidates across numerous markets and industries and place them into the appropriate position successfully. Please allow us to help you find your dream job today!