Produce Buyer

Job Description

Job Description

Do organic beets make your heart beat? Do you think it's rad to source locally-grown radishes? Then keep reading because you might be the perfect fit for us!

Our growing Produce department features a vast and always changing array of fresh produce, a large majority of which is locally-sourced or organically grown, and all of it is offered at a competitive price. We are seeking a Produce Buyer to join a team known for its excellent customer service skills and enthusiastic knowledge about fruits, veggies, and more.

What You'll Do:

• Place and receive orders to keep the department consistently well-stocked
• Cultivate strong, mutually beneficial relationships with local growers and vendors
• Track sales trends and seasonal movement to build an exciting, competitive product mix
• Negotiate pricing and apply variable margin strategies to hit department goals
• Keep PLUs, costs, and product data accurate and current in our POS system
• Help plan and maintain eye-catching, well-rotated produce displays
• Support quarterly inventories, case cleanings, and accurate recordkeeping
• Deliver excellent customer service and share product knowledge with shoppers
• Meet regularly with the department manager to align on goals and strategy

What We're Looking For:

• Background in purchasing, buying, or inventory management
• Sharp attention to detail and strong time management
• Clear, professional communication and organizational skills
• Comfortable lifting up to 50 lbs., standing for long shifts, and working in coolers/freezers

Preferred Qualifications:

• Retail produce experience - purchasing, merchandising, and quality control a plus
• Working knowledge of organic standards and multi-vendor sourcing
• Strong numerical/analytical skills for margin tracking and inventory management
• Background in natural foods or co-op retail
• Comfortable with MS suite, Google Suite, and point-of-sale systems

Why Work With Us?

At our Co-op, we offer:

• Competitive pay and a supportive, inclusive company culture.
• A comprehensive benefits package, including group health insurance, optional vision and dental coverage, 20% store discount, profit-sharing bonuses, 3+ weeks PTO, and more.
• Opportunities to learn something new every day in a growing, community-focused workplace.

This is a full-time, 32-40 hour-per-week role. If you're ready to bring your expertise and enthusiasm to a team that values community and quality, we'd love to hear from you!

*$500 hiring bonus available. $500 paid out after 6 months of employment for external candidates only.*

Learn more about our organization at middlebury.coop