Benefits:
401(k)
Bonus based on performance
Competitive salary
Paid time off
Training & development
The Junior Produce Buyer supports the procurement team in sourcing fresh fruits and vegetables at competitive costs while maintaining quality, consistency, and supply reliability. This role is execution-focused and detail-driven, serving as a pipeline position for developing into a full Produce Buyer.
The Junior Buyer works closely with sales, operations, logistics, and quality control to ensure product availability aligns with customer demand, pricing strategies, and margin targets.
Key Responsibilities
Purchasing & Vendor Support
Assist senior buyers with daily purchasing of assigned produce categories
Communicate with growers, shippers, brokers, and import partners regarding pricing, availability, and market conditions
Request, review, and compare quotes; prepare buy sheets and purchase recommendations
Track open orders, arrivals, shortages, substitutions, and overages
Market & Cost Analysis
Monitor daily market trends, seasonality, supply disruptions, and pricing volatility
Maintain accurate cost data including FOB, freight, duty, and landed cost calculations
Assist with margin analysis and cost-plus pricing strategies
Support weekly and monthly procurement reporting
Quality & Inventory Coordination
Coordinate with QC teams on inbound product quality, rejections, and claims
Communicate quality feedback to vendors and document issues
Support inventory rotation, shelf-life awareness, and waste reduction initiatives
Cross-Functional Execution
Work closely with sales to ensure product availability aligns with demand
Coordinate with logistics and warehouse teams on delivery timing and volume accuracy
Assist in ERP updates (purchase orders, item costs, vendor records)
Process & Documentation
Maintain organized records of purchases, confirmations, and vendor communications
Follow internal SOPs related to food safety, traceability, and compliance
Assist in vendor onboarding and documentation tracking when needed
Required Qualifications
1–3 years of experience in produce, food distribution, logistics, or procurement (preferred)
Strong numerical skills with comfort analyzing pricing and margins
Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities
Proficiency with Excel and ERP systems (or ability to learn quickly)
Ability to work early hours and respond to time-sensitive market changes
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in wholesale produce, import/export, or perishable goods
Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred
Understanding of produce seasonality and supply chains
Exposure to FOB buying, freight coordination, or quality control processes
Core Competencies
Analytical thinking
Execution under pressure
Vendor relationship management
Cost awareness and margin discipline
Team collaboration and accountability
Growth Path
This role is designed as a development track toward:
Produce Buyer
Category Buyer
Senior Buyer / Procurement Manager
High performers will gain increased buying authority, vendor ownership, and category responsibility.