Local Produce Buyer | Margin, Merch & Local Sourcing

Middlebury Natural Foods Co-Op; Middlebury (VT); On-site; USD 28,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Vision insurance

Dental coverage

Store discount 20%

Profit-sharing bonuses

Paid time off (3+ weeks)

Job summary

Middlebury Natural Foods Co-Op is hiring for a full-time produce department coordinator in Middlebury, VT. You will place and receive orders, manage inventories, and build strong relationships with local growers to ensure fresh, high-quality produce.

You’ll track sales trends, negotiate pricing, and maintain accurate product data in the POS system. A hands-on, detail-oriented professional with strong communication will thrive in a community-focused cooperative.

Qualifications

• Background in purchasing, buying, or inventory management.
• Strong attention to detail and time management.
• Clear, professional communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Place and receive orders to keep the department stocked.
• Cultivate relationships with local growers and vendors.
• Track sales trends and seasonal movement for product mix.
• Negotiate pricing and apply margin strategies to meet goals.
• Keep PLUs, costs, and product data accurate in the POS system.
• Plan and maintain attractive, well-rotated displays.
• Support inventories, case cleanings, and recordkeeping.
• Deliver excellent customer service and share product knowledge.
• Meet regularly with the department manager to align on goals.

Skills

Purchasing / inventory management

Attention to detail

Time management

Clear communication

Lifting up to 50 lbs.

Tools

MS Suite

Google Suite

POS systems

Job description

Middlebury Natural Foods Co-Op is hiring for a full-time produce department coordinator in Middlebury, VT. You will place and receive orders, manage inventories, and build strong relationships with local growers to ensure fresh, high-quality produce.

You’ll track sales trends, negotiate pricing, and maintain accurate product data in the POS system. A hands-on, detail-oriented professional with strong communication will thrive in a community-focused cooperative.