Procurement & Supply Chain Coordinator — Food Manufacturing

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria; Buffalo Grove (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is seeking a Purchasing Coordinator to keep our supply chain flowing—between suppliers, production floors, and quality teams. You’ll ensure right materials arrive on time and optimize inventory while controlling costs.

Ideal candidates have 1–2 years in purchasing, strong ERP/MRP and Excel skills, and a penchant for organization and supplier negotiation. This role splits time between office and production areas and requires ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of purchasing or procurement experience, preferably in food manufacturing.
• Proficient in ERP/MRP systems and MS Excel; strong Outlook skills.
• Highly organized with ability to prioritize in a fast-moving plant environment.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
• Clear communicator with suppliers and internal teams.

Responsibilities

• Purchase raw materials, packaging, labels, and operating supplies based on production schedules and inventory needs.
• Maintain inventory levels to balance shortages and cash/space constraints.
• Create and manage purchase orders in the ERP system.
• Serve as the primary contact for supplier pricing, lead times, order status, and delivery schedules.
• Coordinate deliveries with warehouse/receiving teams.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance to ensure materials meet food safety and quality standards (COAs, specs, allergen docs).
• Track supplier performance (on-time delivery, quality, service) and resolve issues like shortages or damaged goods.
• Assist with new product launches by sourcing materials and coordinating supplier timelines.
• Maintain supplier records and support physical inventory/cycle counts; identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Support compliance with food manufacturing regulations and supplier approval processes.

Skills

Purchasing experience

ERP/MRP system

Microsoft Excel

Outlook

Organizational skills

Analytical thinking

Negotiation with suppliers

Education

Associate's or Bachelor's in Supply Chain/related

Tools

ERP/MRP software

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is seeking a Purchasing Coordinator to keep our supply chain flowing—between suppliers, production floors, and quality teams. You’ll ensure right materials arrive on time and optimize inventory while controlling costs.

Ideal candidates have 1–2 years in purchasing, strong ERP/MRP and Excel skills, and a penchant for organization and supplier negotiation. This role splits time between office and production areas and requires ability to lift up to 50 lbs.