CM Austin N Lamar Prepared Foods Order Writer - Full-Time

Central Market; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 35,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading specialty grocery store is seeking a purchasing coordinator to manage ingredient orders for Chef Prepared sub-departments. The candidate will work closely with vendors, maintain inventory levels, and ensure compliance with food safety standards. This role requires a detail-oriented individual with strong organizational skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within a team. Experience in food preparation and familiarity with relevant information systems is preferred.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of related experience in food preparation.
• Knowledge of Chef Prepared assortment and food safety standards.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy items.

Responsibilities

• Manage orders and maintain raw ingredient inventory.
• Collaborate with vendors to resolve quality issues.
• Ensure proper food safety certification for the store.

Skills

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Communication

Self-motivation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

MS Word

Excel

Outlook

HEB information systems

Job description

Overview

Central Market is a specialty grocery store that began in Austin, Texas in 1994 and has expanded to multiple locations across the state. Known for its freshness, it offers a wide selection of edible goods, sourcing directly from the finest producers worldwide. With hundreds of cheeses, thousands of wines, vast produce sections, and expert staff, Central Market is a paradise for food enthusiasts. Our mission extends beyond the plate, emphasizing food as a means of uniting families and communities, preserving cultures, and creating new traditions. Each store functions as a true market, fostering the exchange of goods, services, and ideas for those passionate about food.

Responsibilities

• Order all ingredients for Chef Prepared sub-departments, including the coffee bar, gelato, and café (excluding Beer and Wine).
• Manage orders from DSD, Warehouse, and In-store Transfers, utilizing various methods such as phone, website, CM Order Portal, email, warehouse Telxon, and in-store transfer processes.
• Maintain raw ingredient inventory, determining par levels based on vendor service levels, shelf life, and promotional/holiday plans.
• Manage ingredient inventory to meet kitchen needs while minimizing spoilage, shrinkage, and stockouts.
• Collaborate with vendors and the Division Supply Chain Partner to resolve quality issues.
• Track purchases daily and weekly using a purchase tracking form and tools like Business Intelligence (BI) reports, Bill $'s / Bill Units by Vendor, DSD Invoice Report, Daily Invoice Report / DSD Warehouse Inquiry / WH Invoices, and Xnet Reports.
• Make ordering decisions based on the Division Order Guide, Cbord, and daily reviews of the Chef Prepared Purchasing Page on PartnerNet.
• Manage purchases within the budget provided by the Executive Chef.
• Communicate partner concerns to upper management when appropriate.
• Address supply and cost issues directly with the Division Chef Prep Supply Chain partner.
• Encourage teamwork and collaboration among staff.
• Work directly with the Executive Chef to review ingredient needs and budgets.
• Report out-of-stock items and delivery issues to relevant partners, seeking resolutions through secondary vendors.
• Ensure proper Food and Safety Certification for the store location.

Recommended Experience and Education

• 1-3 years of related experience.
• Knowledge of Chef Prepared assortment, raw ingredients, food preparation, and food safety standards.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and accomplish multiple tasks quickly with attention to detail.
• Self-motivated with a strong sense of urgency.
• Experience with HEB information systems (W701, WII), MS Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to stand for long periods.
• Capability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and tasks.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy or bulky items.
• Food Safety Certification preferred.