<p>SUMMARY: The Associate Buyer, Feed Ingredients Purchasing performs purchasing functions to ensure cost-effective purchases, product quality, and timeliness of supply chain; accuracy of cost and adherence to contracts and transparency of cost information to all related internal customers.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to, the following:Monitor inventories to maintain an overall cost-effective operation.Coordinate the logistics of receiving, inventory, and use of purchased materials to satisfy the needs of feed production.Interact with outside vendors in the pursuit of cost saving, highest quality, technical information, and logistics, to facilitate the purchasing function and enhance profitability.Monitor all aspects of the purchasing and use of feed ingredients in the continual search for greater efficiency and profitability.Evaluate the potential use and cost of alternative feed ingredients.Coordinate with live production and nutrition to ensure that appropriate feed ingredients are available.Seek out cost reductions through innovative purchasing techniques and employee training.SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIESThis position will not have supervisory responsibility.EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE RequiredBachelor's Degree in Business or related fieldMinimum 1 year of Feed Ingredients Purchasing experience in buying, purchasing, or related field OR equivalent relevant experienceExcellent communication skills with the ability to address groups and facilitate presentationsExcellent Microsoft Office skills</p>