Purchasing Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

PB Leiner is one of the world's leading producers of high quality gelatins and collagen peptides. We supply a growing market in food, pharma, health nutrition and technical applications. In all our efforts, we strive to be The Clear Solution for our customers. We spot and exploit opportunities, and try to anticipate future trends for them. We pursue outstanding quality and choice, as well as smooth delivery. We have a global presence in terms of both our plants and sales support, and count approximately 1,100 collaborators worldwide. PB Leiner is part of Tessenderlo Group.

Purchasing & Procurement

• Purchase materials and services within the following categories:
  • Production Supplies
  • Final Product (intercompany and external)
  • Packaged Chemicals
  • Lab Supplies
  • Basic Services (e.g., lawncare, janitorial, snow removal, waste services)
• Issue purchase orders and ensure timely follow-up with vendors.
• Maintain accurate pricing, lead times, and supplier data within the ERP system.
• Monitor order status to ensure on-time delivery and resolve delays as needed.

Sourcing Support

• Provide sourcing assistance for assigned departments and categories, including Production, Lab, and Safety

• Responsibilities include:
  • Assisting with supplier identification and quote collection.
  • Supporting cost comparison and supplier evaluations.
  • Participating in vendor selection and qualification processes.
  • Assisting with annual vendor and service provider reviews.

Inventory Management

• Conduct monthly physical counts of chemical inventories and reconcile discrepancies.
• Assist with:
  • Bi-annual finished goods inventory counts
  • Cycle counts of maintenance inventory
• Investigate inventory variances and collaborate with appropriate departments to resolve issues.

ERP & Financial Coordination

• Perform systematic receipts of goods and services in the ERP system.
• Identify, investigate, and resolve invoice variances in coordination with Accounting and vendors.
• Assist with new material setup and chemical approval workflows.
• Maintain accurate purchasing and vendor records.

Compliance & Quality

• Serve as an Internal GMP Auditor to ensure purchasing and inventory practices comply with applicable standards and internal procedures.
• Support documentation and audit readiness activities.

Backup & Projects

• Act as backup to the Purchasing Specialist as needed.
• Participate in cross-functional initiatives and continuous improvement projects.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

• Higher Secondary Education
• 1 - 3 Years relevant experience

Knowledge

• Must be proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word
• Must have strong organizational skills and the ability to multi-task, prioritize, and work efficiently
• Must be analytical with problem-solving capabilities, interpersonal skills, and the ability to function independently and interdependently in a team environment
• Must be open to change and willing to learn new skills as the opportunities arise
• Experience with SAP or other financial system is a plus

• Exposure to a manufacturing environment with noise, machinery, and varying temperatures
• All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
• PB Leiner is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. 
• Benefits from day one. 
• External applicants must currently be eligible to work in the US 
• Office and manufacturing/lab environment (including stairs)
• May require participation in physical inventory counts
• Work Environment:  Office/workstation is located in the maintenance storeroom, with some time spent in the large parts storage area.   Indoor/outdoor fork truck usage is common on a weekly basis.
• Physical Demands:  Daily work has a mix of physical activity and sedentary activities.  Bending, lifting, reaching and stocking in regard to maintenance parts management are common on a daily basis.