Now Hiring - American Food Ingredients, Inc - Professional Services Purchasing and Sales Assistant - Temp-to-Hire in Oceanside, CA

Full description of the position

We are seeking a detail-oriented, proactive, and organized Temporary Purchasing and Sales Assistant to support our team during a staff absence. This role will assist both the purchasing and sales departments with day-to- day operations, ensuring smooth coordination between internal teams, vendors, and customers. If you are excited about this role but do not meet every qualification, we still encourage you to apply. We are looking for people who are eager to grow and we support learning on the job. Responsibilities : * Conduct post-trade show follow-up by processing customer and broker inquiries, sending samples and documents, and updating the sales database. * Track customer interests and product trends; coordinate, prepare, and send product samples; follow up after shipments to ensure satisfaction and identify additional needs. * Communicate professionally via phone and email with brokers, customers, and vendors. * Coordinate with overseas shipment vendors and arrange domestic drayage trucking. * File and manage import/customs documentation, and track shipments to ensure timely delivery to the final port. * Manage domestic and international payments, including processing wire transfers. * Coordinate with vendors to gather pricing, confirm terms, process quote requests, and generate purchase orders. * Collaborate with the Production Manager and Order Department to ensure product availability and fulfillment. * Cost out purchase orders and production logs for internal tracking and budgeting. * Assist in aspects of company participation in trade shows, including registration, transportation, accommodations, booth setup, and shipping. * Provide administrative support across departments, including clerical tasks, filing, phone support, and assistance with special projects. Requirements: * Prior experience in a purchasing, sales support, or administrative role preferred. * Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and/or Google Workspace. * Familiarity of inventory control principles and practices. * Experience in contract management and procurement process. * Knowledge of supply chain management concepts is a plus. * Strong negotiation skills with the ability to build strong vendor relationships. * Analytical mindset with the ability to assess pricing trends and market data. * Effective team player, with ability to collaborate on multiple tasks. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Job Types: Full-time, Temporary Pay: $19.00 - $21.00 per hour Expected hours: 40 per week Schedule: * 8 hour shift * Day shift * Monday to Friday * No weekends Work Location: In person