Assistant Buyer

Tahoepetstation; Sparks (NV); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Tahoepetstation in Sparks, NV is seeking a Retail Assistant Buyer to develop and execute purchasing strategies that maximize sales and inventory productivity. You will partner with Operations, Store Leadership, and vendors to ensure we offer high-quality products that meet customer demand while aligning with company goals.

The role emphasizes analyzing sales trends, negotiating with vendors, managing purchase orders, and maintaining data integrity across systems.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of retail buying or merchandising experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Merchandising or related field preferred.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and inventory systems experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute purchasing strategies aligned with company objectives.
• Analyze sales trends, inventory levels, seasonal demand, and customer preferences to guide buys.
• Source, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors for pricing and terms.
• Build and maintain strong vendor relationships.
• Manage purchase orders and ensure timely product delivery.
• Monitor inventory turnover and recommend replenishment or markdowns.
• Identify new product opportunities and industry trends.
• Collaborate with Operations to support merchandising initiatives and store openings.
• Review product performance and report on sales, margins, inventory, and vendor performance.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records and data integrity in systems.
• Work with Finance to support inventory and budget goals.
• Ensure compliance with policies and regulations.

Skills

Negotiation

Analytical

Vendor management

Excel skills

Organizational skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Merchandising or related field

Tools

Excel

Retail inventory systems

Job description

The Retail Assistant Buyer is responsible for developing and executing merchandise purchasing strategies that maximize sales, profitability, and inventory productivity. This role partners with Operations, Store Leadership, and vendors to ensure the company offers high-quality products that meet customer demand while supporting company goals.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and execute purchasing strategies aligned with company objectives.
• Analyze sales trends, inventory levels, seasonal demand, and customer preferences to make purchasing decisions.
• Source, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors to obtain competitive pricing, quality products, and favorable terms.
• Build and maintain strong vendor relationships.
• Manage purchase orders and ensure timely product delivery.
• Monitor inventory turnover and recommend replenishment, markdowns, or product discontinuation.
• Identify new product opportunities and emerging industry trends.
• Partner with Operations to support merchandising initiatives, promotions, and new store openings.
• Review product performance and prepare reports on sales, margins, inventory, and vendor performance.
• Maintain accurate purchasing records and ensure data integrity within company systems.
• Work collaboratively with Finance to support inventory and budget goals.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and applicable regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Merchandising or related field preferred.
• 3–5 years of retail buying or merchandising experience.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; experience with retail inventory systems preferred.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Thinking
• Business Acumen
• Vendor Management
• Inventory Planning
• Financial Analysis
• Attention to Detail
• Collaboration
• Problem Solving

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods.
• Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to travel to stores, vendors, or trade shows as needed.

Success Measures

• Achieves inventory turn and gross margin targets.
• Maintains in-stock levels while minimizing excess inventory.
• Develop productive vendor partnerships.
• Introduces successful new products that drive sales growth.
• Maintains purchasing accuracy and timely order execution

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be afforded equal opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, order of protection status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, military status, an unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other protected category. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing and background verification checks.

Pet Station is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process. If you require an accommodation to complete your application, please contact us at [e-mail]. We are happy to assist!