This position will act as the primary Food & Beverage Buyer and will be responsible for coordinating procurement activities including reviewing and processing requisitions, sourcing suppliers and products. This role ensures the timely and cost-effective acquisition of goods and services in accordance with organizational policies and specifications. The Buyer works closely with vendors and internal departments to maintain purchasing accuracy, supplier performance, and overall procurement efficiency.

• Receives and reviews requisitions for goods and services and places timely and accurate purchase orders.
• Sources vendors and negotiates pricing, terms, and delivery schedules to ensure best value.
• Prepares and issues bid requests for products and services; analyzes proposals and makes recommendations.
• Meets regularly with assigned departments and suppliers to discuss projected procurement needs, make recommendation’s based on current market conditions and pricing, and fulfill specialized and high-volume purchases, including custom items with detailed specifications.
• Maintains current knowledge of market trends, product innovations, and vendor capabilities.
• Analyzes usage trends, historical purchase data, and sales reports to forecast F&B product needs and optimize inventory levels.
• Prepares cost-benefit and ROI analyses to support procurement decisions and minimize waste or over-ordering
• Conducts vendor evaluations based on criteria such as cost, delivery performance, product quality, and customer service.
• Reviews supplier invoices and resolves discrepancies or delays in delivery or billing.
• Maintains organized and accurate records of purchase orders, bid documents, vendor communications, and supporting files.
• Assists in contract management and procurement planning.
• Ensures all purchasing activity complies with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
• Supports inventory control and stock reconciliation processes as needed.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

• Experience procuring a broad range of culinary products including perishable goods, dry goods, and alcoholic beverages, is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of purchasing policies, vendor negotiation, and contract management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail, time management, and organizational ability.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and purchasing software platforms. Stratton Warren experience is preferred.
• Experience with advanced Excel functions and reporting tools (e.g., Tableau, InsideTrack) is a plus.”
• Ability to interact professionally and diplomatically with vendors, departments, and leadership.
• High level of professional ethics and business judgment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in handling sensitive procurement data.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Retail Merchandising, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent combination of education and proven experience as a Food & Beverage Buyer will be considered.
• Additional certifications in procurement, inventory management, or retail buying (e.g., CPM, CPIM) are a plus.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in purchasing, retail buying, or inventory control.
• Proven ability to source, negotiate, and manage vendor relationships while maintaining quality and budget standards.
• Strong knowledge of merchandising strategies, trend analysis, and product lifecycle management.
• Experience using procurement or inventory systems and analyzing sales data to inform buying decisions.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Prior experience in a casino, resort, or retail-driven hospitality environment is preferred.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATES, REGISTRATIONS:

Must have successfully completed a background check and obtained a gaming license issued by the Morongo Gaming Agency, as required.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

Must be able to read and interpret documents in English, such as instructions, guidelines, policies, and procedures. Must also be able to communicate clearly and effectively with team members, management, and guests.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

• Communication Skills: Must be able to communicate clearly, professionally, and effectively in person, by phone, and in writing with vendors, department managers, and internal stakeholders; responsible for negotiating purchases, coordinating deliveries, and maintaining supplier relationships.
• Lifting and Carrying: Occasionally lifts and transports product samples, supply catalogs, files, and materials weighing up to 25 pounds; may assist with receiving or inspecting merchandise.
• Manual Dexterity: Frequently uses hands and fingers to operate a computer, handle purchasing documents, prepare orders, and manage vendor records with accuracy and speed.
• Mobility: Occasionally moves between office areas, storage rooms, or receiving areas to verify deliveries, inspect products, or communicate with department personnel.
• Stationary Work: Frequently remains seated at a desk or computer workstation for extended periods while reviewing purchase requests, preparing orders, managing inventory systems, and conducting vendor correspondence.
• Tool Operation: Regular use of purchasing software, inventory management systems, spreadsheets, phones, and standard office equipment.
• Visual Acuity: Requires close vision to read contracts, vendor quotes, product specifications, invoices, and digital records with precision and attention to detail.
• Working Conditions: Primarily operates in a professional office setting; may occasionally visit receiving areas, vendor showrooms, or warehouse spaces; potential exposure to a smoking environment when working in or near casino operations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This is a dynamic, fast-paced environment that requires the ability to adapt and perform under pressure. The casino operates with moderate to loud noise levels and is a smoking environment, requiring team members to work comfortably in these conditions.

WORKING HOURS:

Primary shift is Dayshift, however; Morongo Casino Resort & Spa operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year; therefore, flexibility in scheduling is essential. Team members must be available to work shifts that may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events, as needed. Schedules are subject to change based on business needs and may include overtime, as well as work on both weekdays and weekends.

INDIAN PREFERENCE:

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and practice Native American preference in accordance with applicable laws.