Associate Buyer

National Buying Services is the department dedicated to acquiring the goods that our ALDI customers count on. Beyond working to secure quality products at the lowest possible prices through our Buying and support teams (Administration, Merchandising, Pricing, Quality Assurance, Analytics and more), our teams ensure we are providing the best value and quality in everything we do. Are you a dynamic and experienced professional looking to make a significant impact in the retail industry? Join our team as an Associate Buyer, where you'll have the opportunity to support the buying team and help shape our product assortment. This role offers a unique blend of creativity, problem‑solving, and supplier communication in a fast‑paced environment. If you're looking to grow your skills and advance your career in a growing organization, apply today. As part of the ALDI National Buying team, your focus will be putting great products in our stores that closely align with customer preferences. While working directly with suppliers, you’ll focus on merchandising and pricing as well as corporate responsibility when it comes to our materials. You’ll also focus on developing a wide range of products that meet or exceed our quality standards. If you’re looking to grow your skills and your career, choose more with ALDI. Position Type Full‑Time Starting Wage $28.75 per hour. Wage increases: Year 2 — $29.75 | Year 3 — $30.75 | Year 4 — $31.75 Work Location Batavia, IL. This role is eligible to participate in ALDI’s Hybrid Work Program, which allows remote work up to 3 days per week (work remotely up to 3 days per week; work in‑office at least 2 days per week). Duties and Responsibilities Support the Director Buying to oversee the product life cycle of a sub‑group of products. Request, organize, and manage product samples from suppliers. Understand commodities and provide recommendations to direct leader based on market knowledge. Manage multiple projects at once by prioritizing, setting deadlines and coordinating the flow of information internally and externally. Strategize effectively to solve problems with vendors and product issues. Utilize various computer applications for database management, report generation and tracking spreadsheets. Serve as the primary liaison between internal and external parties in coordination with direct leader. Provide training to new staff and contribute to committee or teamwork. Provide recommendations for changes or improvements on operating or training procedures and seek further training on areas if needed. Perform administrative and clerical duties such as answering phones, preparing documents, maintaining calendar meetings/appointments, upholding files, and processing paperwork. Collaborate with team members and communicate relevant information to direct leader. Uphold the security and confidentiality of documents and data within area of responsibility. Other duties as assigned. Job-specific Competencies Consistently demonstrates the Mindsets, ALDI Acts Competencies and Professional Skills (M.A.P.) as outlined for the role. Give attention to detail and follow instruction. Ability to stay organized and multi‑task efficiently. Ability to work both independently and within a team environment. Establish goals and work toward achievement. Effective time management; maximize productivity. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Project a positive image of the business. Understand, recognize and effectively manage challenges by proactively working to decrease their impact and frequency of occurring. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite. Develop and maintain positive relationships with internal and external parties. Education and Experience Associate Degree in Business or a related field required. A minimum of 1‑3 years of relevant experience required. Or, a combination of education and experience providing equivalent knowledge. Physical Requirements Work may be performed in an office, remote office or a combination of both where a computer and office equipment may be used as needed to perform duties. Regularly required to sit, reach, grasp, stand and move from one area to another. Constantly and repeatedly use keyboard/mouse. Occasionally required to push, pull, bend, lift and move up to 25 lbs. Travel Minimal travel required as needed for job related duties such as training, project work and administrative tasks. Benefits ALDI offers competitive wages and benefits to all employees including: 401(k) Plan Company 401(k) Matching Contributions Employee Assistance Program (EAP) PerkSpot National Discount Program In addition, full‑time employees are offered: Medical, Prescription, Dental & Vision Insurance Generous Vacation Time & 7 Paid Holidays Up to 6 Weeks Paid Parental Leave at 100% of pay Up to 2 Weeks Paid Caregiver Leave at 100% of pay Short and Long‑Term Disability Insurance Life, Dependent Life and AD&D Insurance Voluntary Term Life Insurance Equal Opportunity ALDI is committed to equal opportunity for all employees and applicants. As a proud Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE), we do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, religion, sex, sexual stereotyping, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital status, mental or physical disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, pregnancy (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), or any other protected characteristic. Employment may be contingent upon ALDI’s receipt of an acceptable and job‑related drug test, motor vehicle report, and/or reference check, as applicable and permissible by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr ALDI USA