Bookstore Associate Merchandise Buyer

Bookstore Associate Merchandise Buyer

University of Minnesota Bookstores

The Bookstore Associate Merchandise Buyer supports merchandise buying of assigned product categories under the guidance of senior procurement staff. This role is a cross‑functional team member within an assigned department, ensuring excellent customer service and compliance. This full‑time position reports to a senior buyer.

• 60% Purchasing:
  Buying responsibilities include sourcing product for resale, negotiating terms with vendors (price, delivery, advertising allowance, returns allowance, payment terms), developing and maintaining plan‑ograms, managing product flow, merchandising, and maximizing sales and margin while controlling inventory and markdowns.
• Assist in acquisition and management of assigned product categories.
• Implement sales and marketing strategies for assigned lines of business.
• Assist in maintaining budget goals for inventory levels, sales projections, and gross‑margin profit set for the department.
• Verify availability of materials, document relevant information, and enter data into appropriate applications.
• Solicit and obtain information from other University of Minnesota departmental faculty/staff as assigned.
• Plan purchasing efforts to meet demand while keeping inventory levels at industry and store standards.
• 30% Customer Service:
  Support, coordinate, and develop digital material delivery programs where applicable.
• Maintain accurate records and files related to the area of responsibility.
• Advise customers/clients on product alternatives.
• Keep floor staff apprised of on‑order status and expected delivery dates.
• Manager on duty for Bookstores on assigned nights and weekends.
• 10% Other:
  Duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Implement marketing and merchandising plans to support sales goals for all assigned product categories.
• Assist in all aspects of the purchasing process: sourcing, negotiating terms, managing flow, and effective displays under senior buyer supervision.
• Forecast and maintain ideal inventory levels based on demand or sales trend.
• Monitor market trends; obtain comparative data on price, quality, quantity, availability and delivery; stay current on new product developments; attend trade shows as needed.
• Work with University departments to create a welcoming environment that supports learning, research and outreach.
• Confer with the supervisor on appropriate University purchasing policies, procedures, and methodologies.

Work is performed mainly in a retail store and office setting.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field and two (2) years of professional purchasing experience, or a combination of related education and work experience total six (6) years.

Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to work independently and solve straightforward problems.
• Skill in reading and interpreting purchase requests and other written material.
• Effective use of computer hardware and software, maintaining appropriate systems, records and files.
• Demonstrated ability to follow strategic direction and apply analytical thinking.
• Administrative and leadership skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Pay Range $29.80–$38.47/hour, depending on education, qualifications, and experience.

Time Appointment: 100%

Position Type: Civil‑Service & Non‑Faculty Labor‑Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information on benefit eligibility. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off.
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program.
• Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans.
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• University HSA contributions.
• Disability and employer‑paid life insurance.
• Employee wellbeing program.
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity.
• Financial counseling services.
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost.
• Employee…