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Book Distributor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Territory Manager

Portland, OR · On-site

$48K - $75K/yr

As the largest independent safety distributor in the country, we've built our reputation on ... You'll step into an established, high-performing territory with an existing book of business that ...

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Book Distributor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11

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$29

How much do book distributor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for book distributor in Portland, OR is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a book distributor?

A Book Distributor is responsible for supplying books from publishers to retailers, libraries, or other buyers. They manage inventory, coordinate shipments, and ensure books reach their destinations efficiently. Distributors may work with multiple publishers and handle logistics, marketing, and sales support. Their role is essential in making books available to a wide audience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a book distributor?

To thrive as a Book Distributor, you need a solid understanding of supply chain logistics, inventory management, and market trends related to books, typically supported by experience in warehousing or distribution. Familiarity with inventory management software, order fulfillment systems, and shipping platforms is often required. Strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, and customer service skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are essential for ensuring timely delivery, accuracy in orders, and maintaining strong relationships with publishers, retailers, and clients.

What are some typical challenges faced by book distributors, and how can they be managed?

Book Distributors often face challenges such as managing fluctuating inventory levels, meeting tight shipping deadlines, and responding to sudden changes in market demand. These can be managed by maintaining efficient processes, utilizing advanced inventory tracking systems, and fostering good communication with publishing partners. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are essential for quickly adapting to supply chain disruptions. As part of a distribution team, you may also collaborate with warehouse staff, publishers, and retail clients to ensure smooth operations and resolve issues swiftly. Emphasizing adaptability and proactive planning can make these challenges more manageable and help you succeed in the role.

How much do book distributors make?

Book distributors typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $30,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the distribution company. Many distributors work part-time or freelance, which can affect overall earnings, and success often depends on sales skills and industry connections.

Who are the top 5 book distributors?

Top book distributors include Ingram Content Group, Baker & Taylor, Bookazine, Brodart, and Midpoint Trade Books. These companies supply books to retailers, libraries, and educational institutions and often require knowledge of supply chain management and industry standards.

What job categories do people searching Book Distributor jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Book Distributor jobs in Portland, OR are:

Infographic showing various Book Distributor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,382 per year, or $18 per hour.

District Manager - Full Book

Columbia Distributing Company

Vancouver, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Columbia Distributing rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

261st of 423 rated retail wholesalers


Job description

Summary

The District Manager directly and indirectly oversees the execution of the sales goals in their territory. They provide guidance and supervision to Sales Representatives and Sales Associates.

Key Responsibilities

  • Accomplish sales and distribution goals by executing the monthly, quarterly and annual business objectives and company initiatives.
  • Manage inventory expenses in accordance with company policy.
  • Administer, educate and train employees to ensure the execution of company goals and priorities.
  • Interact respectfully and maintain dialog with inter-company departments, suppliers and customers.
  • Have a thorough knowledge of all decision makers in each account
  • Reports and numbers for sales team
  • Ride along- monthly calendar
  • Submit all required reporting, preplans, trackers, surveys, market surveys (MVPs), expense report, mileage log, etc.
  • Create reset opportunities and develop retail promotions appropriate to customer base.
  • Effectively sell, rotate and merchandise the Columbia Distributing portfolio in all assigned accounts.
  • Manage promotions and distributions in assigned accounts monthly as required.
  • Grow net core brand distribution over baseline throughout the year.
  • Maintain a high level of industry knowledge: beer, non-alcoholic, food journals, trends, market share, etc.
  • Monitor competitive activity and communicate strategies
  • Recruit, train, supervise and evaluate department staff
  • Minimum visibility in all accounts needs to be equal to or greater than competition.
  • Minimum MVP standards in eighty percent (80%) of accounts surveyed.
  • Above MVP standards in twenty percent (20%) of accounts surveyed.

Preferred Expereince

Beverage sales experience required. Strong understanding of wine, spirits, beer or total beverage. Strong on and off premise account knowledge. Comfortable working in a fast-paced, highly competitive market. Demonstrated ability to grow sales, distribution and market share. Provides clear expectations and consistent follow up. Strong understanding of KPIs, distribution, placements, displays, sales trends. Comfortable calling on major chains, independents and on premise accounts. Strong presentation and negotiation skills. Develop high performers for future leadership positions. Creates a positive, competitive team culture

Key Competencies

  • Strong sense of accountability
  • Ability to develop and motivate staff to achieve maximum potential
  • General knowledge of industry products.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Effective organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to develop strong relationships with internal and external customers.
  • Ability to work independently while managing multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite; Experience with an AS400 system;

People Management

This position may manage Sales Representatives and Sales Associates and sometimes Sales Support personnel.

Work Environment

Work indoors with frequent walking in customer accounts

Physical Demands

  • Lift/Carry and Push/Pull up to 75lbs.
  • Bend/stoop/crouch/squat/use arms/wrists/hands/grasp
  • Use of industry tools: hand truck, six wheeler, manual pallet jack, box cutter
  • Work indoors and outdoors
  • Driving required

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position, days/hours of work vary, and may include weekends.

Travel

Ability to travel throughout the day for visits to customer accounts

Required Education and Experience

  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Valid driver's license and auto insurance required -- position is subject to Fleet Safety Policy
  • Minimum of 21 years of age

Preferred Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's or advanced degree
  • Minimum of five (5) years previous beverage industry sales experience
  • Minimum of three (3) years previous sales management experience

Compensation

  • Actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years and depth of experience, certifications, and specific location.
  • Employees (and their families) are eligible for medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are able to enroll in our company's 401k plan. Employees are also eligible for 80 hours of vacation every year and 7-8 days of paid holidays throughout the calendar year (depending on location).
  • Hired applicant may be eligible for [incentives/ bonuses/ annual bonuses.


Classification:
Outside Sales Exempt
Reports to: General Manager or Sales Director


What Columbia Distributing employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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Columbia Distributing logo

About Columbia Distributing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

In 2008, Columbia Distributing, Mt. Hood Beverage, and Gold River Distributing united to form Columbia Distributing as we know it today. With this merger and the 2018 acquisitions of Marine View Beverage and General Distributors, Inc., our company is now one of the country's largest malt beverage distributors. Size is not our only distinction, however. Columbia Distributing boasts an extensive selection of beverages, including craft beer, wine and spirits.

Industry

Food and beverage wholesalers

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1935

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