Assistant Buyer

Intermountain Farmers Association, a regional agricultural cooperative, seeks qualified and experienced individuals to fill the position of Assistant Buyer

About the Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented and trend-aware Assistant Buyer to support multiple categories including Outdoor Cooking & Living, Hardware, Heating & Cooling. This role plays a key part in product selection, vendor management, inventory planning, and data analysis to help deliver compelling assortments that drive sales and margin while meeting customer needs.

The ideal candidate is analytical, organized, and passionate about outdoor living products-from grills and fire pits to hardware and seasonal essentials.

Key Responsibilities

Buying & Merchandising Support

• Assist the Buyer in developing and executing assortments for Outdoor Cooking, Outdoor Living, and Hardware categories

• Support product selection, item setup, and lifecycle management in internal systems

• Coordinate samples, product reviews, and assortment line reviews

Vendor & Product Management

• Communicate with vendors regarding pricing, product specs, lead times, and availability

• Help maintain strong vendor relationships and assist with new vendor onboarding

• Track product changes, discontinuations, and substitutions

Analytics & Inventory

• Analyze sales data, trends, and inventory performance to support buying decisions

• Assist with forecasts, replenishment, and inventory optimization

• Monitor margins, costs, and promotional performance

Operational Excellence

• Ensure accuracy of item data including cost, MSRP, dimensions, and compliance details

• Support ad, promotion, and seasonal planning processes

• Partner cross-functionally with Planning, Marketing, Logistics, and Stores/Ecommerce teams

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent

• 1+ year of experience in retail, merchandising, or buying support roles

• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to learn SAP operating system

• Excellent organizational and communication skills

• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

Preferred

• Experience in outdoor living, grills, hardware, home improvement, or seasonal merchandise

• Familiarity with retail buying systems and inventory tools

• Passion or personal interest in outdoor cooking and home projects

BENEFITS: IFA offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental insurance, vision reimbursement plan, generous 401(k) matching, life insurance, long-term disability, vacation time, sick time, paid holidays, employee discounts, as well many other incredible benefits.

IFA is an Equal Opportunity Employer