Purchasing Associate

Shank’s, a subsidiary of Universal Ingredients, is a premier manufacturer of vanilla extracts, other extracts, natural and artificial flavors, food colors, syrups, and sauces. Shank’s quality products are widely distributed to industrial, private-label, and grocery customers worldwide.

Universal Ingredients

Universal Ingredients is a global supplier of high-quality, plant-based specialty ingredients for human and pet consumption. With thousands of products and global sourcing capabilities, we provide customized, value-added solutions – including fruit and vegetable juices and concentrates, dehydrated ingredients, botanical extracts, flavors, and beverage systems – for food and beverage manufacturers worldwide.

Our advanced production capabilities, including aseptic beverage processing and flexible packaging solutions, enable safe, shelf-stable products with no preservatives. At the heart of our innovation is our Application Capabilities Lab, where food science experts collaborate with customers to develop market-ready solutions through product development, flavor analysis, sensory testing, and commercialization support.

Driven by innovation, sustainability, and partnership, Universal Ingredients helps customers stay ahead of evolving consumer preferences while delivering consistent quality, functionality, and performance across global markets.

Available Immediately Upon Hire: Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA, HSA, EAP, ID Theft, 401K, and PTO.

Disclaimer: Shank’s Extracts manufactures various products that identify as major food allergens (milk, eggs, tree nuts, wheat, and soybeans) as well as several other food ingredients. We cannot guarantee you will not be exposed to skin and/or odor contact with these various ingredients. Your health and safety are our number one priority, and we will do our best to accommodate within reason.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION:

The primary purpose of this position is to support the Purchasing Department in the execution of its duties in procuring raw materials and other goods and services.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintain Purchase Orders for price confirmations and delivery dates and escalate to Buyer(s) as needed.
• Review and resolve receiving discrepancies.
• Review and resolve invoicing discrepancies.
• Follow up with packaging suppliers on quality matters.
• Assist with MRO purchasing responsibilities including requisition receipts from internal customers, and P.O. placement as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL/SKILLS NEEDED:

• Proficient with Microsoft Office products such as Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.
• Familiarity with ERP systems is required.
• Ability to interact well with internal departments of the company in addition to a diverse group of suppliers.
• Good problem-solving capabilities.
• Experienced in working independently, yet able to work within a team.
• Able to work in a structured environment, following set rules and guidelines.
• Exhibits professionalism and good interpersonal skills.
• Experienced in data entry, handling documentation, and keeping appropriate departments apprised of any problems.
• English comprehension including speaking, reading, and writing is required for our business's necessityto ensurea safe and effective work environment.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• High School diploma
• At least 1 year of purchasing experience is preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must have average to above average use of arms, hands, and fingers to operate office equipment, phones, and computers.
• Must have an average vision and hearing to hear on the telephone and see computer, mail, and office equipment. Must be able to talk on the telephone.
• Seldom exposed to dirt, heat, cold, odor, fumes, noise, dryness, wetness, vibration, and poor
• ventilation. Seldom exposed to dust.
• Light work requires little physical effort.
• Exposure to food allergens such as, but not limited to, milk eggs, tree nuts, wheat, and soybeans will occur.

**Conduct,**Quality, Integrity, and Culture

Conduct:We will conduct every aspect of our business with honesty, integrity, and openness, respecting human rights and the interests of our employees, customers, and third parties.

**Quality:**Shank’s is committed to food safety and product quality. We employ extensive food safety programs and controls at all levels. Our quality standards and food safety procedures are thoroughly being evaluated internally and externally. We continuously strive to improve our performance.

**Integrity:**Shank’s and its employees will not offer, give, seek or receive, either directly or indirectly, improper inducements for business or financial gain. Where information is confidential, that confidentiality must be protected.

**Culture:**Shank’s respects the cultural values of our employees, contractors, and customers. We also promote a balanced work-life environment. We recognize and celebrate our employees for their hard work and the contributions they make to our company.

Shanks Core Values:

**ASPIRATION:**Share a vision for achievement

**ACCOUNTABILITY:**Support company reputation

**ADAPTABILITY:**Evolve to meet business needs