Produce - Buyer

Overview

Secure a high-quality product mix which balances locally sourced, organically grown, and affordable produce. Make purchase decisions and manage order fulfillment, utilize projected sales volumes to manage ordering and minimize shrink, fulfill special order requests.

Produce Manager

Full Time, Hourly, $23/Hour

Product Mix, Price Image, Purchasing, and Inventory Management

• Actively cultivate vibrant product mix utilizing category management
• Consult with Produce Manager on bringing in new products, space planning and utilization, fixture selection and product placement
• Work with the Produce Manager to set pricing to achieve margin goals and maintain a competitive price image
• Assist Produce Manager in making regular visits to competing stores to participate in price comparison
• Ensure product signage is accurate and up-to-date
• Notify produce team of new and returning product to ensure accurate stocking
• Work with Produce Manager and other buyers to ensure that price list is up-to-date
• Continually evaluate and determine optimum sources of supply in conjunction with other buyers
• Make purchase decisions and manage the process for order fulfillment
• Ensure that department products conform to Co-op policy guidelines
• Order sufficient volume to meet demand and allow for abundant displays while minimizing shrink and spoilage
• Calculate and update new prices in POS system in accordance with department margin guidelines
• Seek new sources for products in demand that aren’t available through current distributors
• Negotiate with suppliers, brokers, sales representatives for best prices, terms, quality, and delivery

• Ensure that invoices are reviewed for accuracy, properly coded and submitted to the finance department within 24 hours of when the product is received
• For mis-picks or quality issues, seek credit from suppliers where applicable. Follow up to ensure credit is received
• Assist with deliveries when needed
• In the absence of the Receiver or Manager, check-in and sign for deliveries, including checking produce for quality and verifying piece counts and weights

• Monitor departmental financial indicators and use this data to improve ordering
• Work with department managers to set pricing to meet sales, margin goals
• Use IT tools effectively, seeking training if needed. Keep information organized and accessible
• Assist with inventory procedures as needed
• Ensure that produce recalls are communicated to department managers

• Ensure quick, courteous, enthusiastic responses to customer requests, with staff personally promoting products with samples and serving suggestions
• Actively engage customers and support consultative sales by being knowledgeable about natural foods, nutrition and special diets
• Develop, maintain and promote a robust special order program for our customers

• Assist in training of staff and member owners in proper handling of produce, composting and cleaning procedures
• As needed, guide member owners in prioritizing workflow
• Assist with stocking, culling, cleaning or other duties as assigned by the manager on duty
• Complete special projects as assigned by Produce Manager
• Seek out training where needed

Full-Time/Part-Time:
Full-Time

Open Date: 1/23/2026

Position
:
Produce Buyer

• 2+ years produce buying experience
• Demonstrated effectiveness in negotiating
• Basic arithmetic skills
• Previous experience with produce: retail, wholesale, farming, gardening, professional cooking, etc.
• Commitment to organic and local agriculture, familiarity with and interest in natural foods
• Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs safely and continuously
• Proven experience in handling multiple demands
• Proven ability to set priorities, meet deadlines, and able to accomplish team objectives
• Demonstrated attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills: a good listener who gives clear instructions
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with computer competency, including MS Office Suite, email, and internet use
• Strong organizational skills with proven follow through on commitments
• Thorough understanding of mark up and margins to achieve department goals
• Supervisory experience: training and giving direction
• Up-to-date Driver’s License and ability to drive a truck

Shift: Rotating Days and Evenings

This position is currently accepting applications.

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