Junior Buyer

JOB DETAILS

Jr Buyer

Department: Procurement


Reports To: Category Manager or Director of Purchasing

Restaurant Depot is the nation's leading members-only, wholesale cash-and-carry supplier serving independent restaurants, caterers, delis, convenience stores, and other food service businesses across 165+ locations in 35 states. Our stores offer bulk quantities of fresh meat, seafood, produce, dairy, a wide selection of frozen foods, grocery items, beverages, paper goods, cleaning supplies, restaurant equipment and more. Open seven days a week, we are committed to the success of small business owners who depend on us for consistent quality and volume pricing. As we continue to expand, we are looking for driven individuals who embody an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for supporting the success of small businesses.

Position Summary

As a Junior Buyer, you will play a key role in our procurement team, sourcing and managing essential food and non-food supplies to keep our operations running smoothly. You'll gain hands-on experience in vendor coordination, pricing analysis, and inventory management to ensure our supply chain stays cost-effective and reliable. This role is designed for growth: we are looking for a motivated professional ready to master these fundamentals and promote into a full Buyer position within 12 to 18 months.

Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, Business, Hospitality, or related field preferred
• Desire to fast-track a career in procurement and supply management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

Key Responsibilities

Procurement & Purchasing
• Assist in sourcing food products, beverages, packaging, and kitchen supplies from approved vendors
• Create and process purchase orders accurately and in a timely manner
• Monitor order status and ensure on-time delivery
• Maintain accurate purchasing records and documentation

Vendor Management
• Communicate with suppliers regarding pricing, availability, and delivery schedules
• Support in negotiating pricing and terms when appropriate
• Assist in evaluating vendor performance and resolving discrepancies

Inventory & Cost Control
• Monitor inventory levels and recommend replenishment quantities
• Track product usage trends and seasonal demand
• Assist in cost analysis to ensure competitive pricing and margin targets

Quality & Compliance
• Ensure all products meet company quality standards and food safety regulations
• Verify product specifications and resolve quality concerns with suppliers
• Support compliance with company purchasing policies

Reporting & Administrative Support
• Prepare purchasing reports and pricing comparisons
• Maintain product and supplier databases
• Provide general administrative support to the procurement team

Skills & Competencies
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and purchasing/inventory systems
• Analytical mindset with attention to detail
• Ability to work in a fast-paced food service environment
• Basic knowledge of food safety and handling regulations

Work Environment
• Office-based with periodic warehouse interaction
• Fast-paced, high-volume wholesale environment
• May require early hours depending on assigned product category

Compensation and Benefits:
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Company Matched 401K
• Vacation, Personal & Sick Time