Animal Science Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Position: Meat 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, food trucks, delis, convenience stores, and other foodservice businesses. We operate in 35 states with over 160 locations nationwide. Our warehouses offer bulk quantities of fresh meat, seafood, produce, dairy, a wide selection of frozen foods, grocery items, beverages, paper goods, cleaning supplies, and restaurant equipment. Open seven days a week, we are committed to supporting primary business owners who buy in volume and depend on consistent quality and value. As we continue to grow each year, we are looking to bring on individuals who embody the entrepreneurial spirit and are driven to support the success of small businesses.

Position Summary

The Meat Buyer is responsible for supporting the procurement and management of assigned product categories to ensure strong in-stock conditions, competitive pricing, and healthy inventory turns. This role works closely with vendors/suppliers, warehouse operations, logistics, and sales teams to maintain product flow and support overall company profitability.

Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain, or related field preferred
2. 1–5 years of purchasing, inventory, merchandising, or supply chain experience (food industry preferred)
3. Strong analytical and organizational skills
4. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
5. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
6. Strong communication and problem-solving skills

Key Responsibilities

Purchasing & Inventory Management

1. Place purchase orders based on demand forecasts and inventory levels
2. Monitor daily inventory reports to prevent out-of-stocks and overstock situations
3. Maintain appropriate inventory levels to support sales while minimizing shrink
4. Track and manage open purchase orders to ensure timely delivery

Vendor Coordination

1. Communicate with vendors regarding pricing, availability, and lead times
2. Assist in negotiating costs and resolving discrepancies
3. Support onboarding of new suppliers and item setups

Pricing & Cost Management

1. Maintain accurate cost and retail pricing in system
2. Monitor cost changes and communicate updates to internal stakeholders
3. Assist with margin analysis and competitive price checks

Cross-Functional Support

1. Partner with warehouse and logistics teams to resolve receiving issues
2. Work with operations to address product quality concerns
3. Support promotional planning and execution

Data & Reporting

1. Analyze sales trends and product performance
2. Prepare reports on inventory levels, vendor performance, and category results

Work Environment

1. Office-based with periodic warehouse interaction
2. Fast-paced, high-volume wholesale environment
3. May require early hours depending on assigned category

Compensation and Benefits:

1. Competitive salary commensurate with experience
2. Performance-based bonus potential
3. Comprehensive benefits package
4. Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
5. Company Matched 401K
6. Vacation, Personal & Sick Time

A Meat Buyer sources, negotiates, and purchases meat products for retail, wholesale, or food service, ensuring high quality, optimal inventory levels, and profitability. They analyze market trends to manage costs and build supplier relationships, often working in fast-paced environments. Key duties include vendor evaluation, inventory control, and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities

1. Supplier Relations: Evaluate, select, and negotiate with vendors to secure the best prices and quality.
2. Procurement and Inventory: Manage purchasing orders to maintain optimal inventory levels, reducing waste and preventing stockouts.
3. Quality Assurance: Ensure all meat products meet food safety standards and quality specifications.
4. Market Analysis: Monitor market trends, price fluctuations, and supply chain dynamics to make informed buying decisions.
5. Merchandising Support: Collaborate with departments on inventory display, pricing strategies, and product promotion.

Required Skills and Qualifications

1. Negotiation Skills: Strong ability to negotiate contracts, prices, and terms.
2. Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding of meat cuts, quality grades, and industry regulations.
3. Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze market reports and inventory data.
4. Organization: Highly organized to handle purchasing logistics and maintain records.
5. Education/Experience: Often requires a degree in agribusiness, animal science, or equivalent experience in butchery or food service procurement.