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Buyer Food Jobs (NOW HIRING)

S & W Wholesale Foods LLC

Buyer

Hammond, LA · On-site

Purchasing Buyer - Food Service Supplies S&W Wholesale Foods, Louisiana's leading independent food service supplier, is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Buyer to join our dynamic ...

Starhired

Food Ingredient Buyer

Reidsville, NC · On-site

If you are a Ingredient Buyer with 3+ years processed food ingredient buying experience ready to join a well established food manufacturer, then this role is for you. You will be responsible for ...

Starhired

Food Ingredient Buyer

Reidsville, NC · On-site

If you are a Ingredient Buyer with 3+ years processed food ingredient buying experience ready to join a well established food manufacturer, then this role is for you. You will be responsible for ...

Blue Signal Search

Food Buyer

Tampa, FL · On-site

Our client is a growing food manufacturing company seeking an experienced Food Buyer to manage raw material and ingredient procurement. This role is responsible for supplier management, cost control ...

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Buyer Food information

See salary details

$34.5K

$68.4K

$102.5K

How much do buyer food jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for buyer food in the United States is $68,384.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Buyer Food do?

A Buyer Food is responsible for purchasing food products and ingredients for businesses such as grocery stores, restaurants, or food manufacturers. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate contracts, and ensure the quality and cost-effectiveness of the products they acquire. Buyer Food professionals also monitor inventory levels, stay updated on market trends, and ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Their role is crucial in maintaining a steady supply of quality food items while optimizing costs.

How does a Buyer Food collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to ensure product quality and timely delivery?

A Buyer Food works closely with suppliers to negotiate contracts, monitor product quality, and ensure timely shipments. Internally, they collaborate with inventory managers, quality assurance, and culinary teams to align purchasing decisions with menu needs and quality standards. Frequent communication and relationship-building are essential, as the role requires balancing cost-effectiveness with quality and consistency. Staying proactive about supplier performance and internal feedback helps prevent stockouts and maintain high standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Buyer Food, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Buyer Food, you need strong negotiation skills, market analysis abilities, and a background in supply chain or procurement, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with inventory management systems, ERP software, and knowledge of food safety standards or certifications like HACCP are typically required. Excellent communication, relationship-building, and attention to detail help you stand out in vendor negotiations and cross-functional teamwork. These skills are essential for ensuring cost-effective purchasing, maintaining quality standards, and supporting the timely supply of food products.

What is the highest paying food job?

The highest paying food-related job is typically a food procurement director or senior food buyer in large organizations, earning six-figure salaries. These roles require extensive experience, negotiation skills, and knowledge of supply chain management. Executive chef and restaurant owner positions can also be highly lucrative depending on the scale and success of the business.

What is the difference between Buyer Food vs Purchasing Coordinator?

AspectBuyer FoodPurchasing Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires purchasing or food industry certificationsOften requires similar certifications, with additional administrative training
Work EnvironmentFood manufacturing, wholesale, or retail settingsOffice-based, supporting procurement processes
Employer & Industry UsageFood companies, supermarkets, restaurantsCorporate procurement departments across industries including food
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding procurement roles in food industryLearning about procurement support roles

While both roles involve procurement, a Buyer Food primarily focuses on selecting and purchasing food products directly for companies or retailers. A Purchasing Coordinator supports the procurement process, often handling administrative tasks and coordinating orders. The Buyer Food typically has more decision-making authority on product selection, whereas the Purchasing Coordinator ensures smooth order processing and documentation.

What is a food buyer?

A food buyer is a professional responsible for selecting and purchasing food products for a business such as a grocery store, restaurant, or food manufacturer. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate prices, and ensure the quality and availability of food items, often using inventory management and procurement skills.

What does a food service buyer do?

A food service buyer is responsible for purchasing food and related supplies for restaurants, cafeterias, or food service companies. They evaluate suppliers, negotiate prices, and ensure timely delivery to meet quality standards and operational needs. Strong negotiation skills and knowledge of food safety regulations are essential in this role.

How to become a grocery buyer?

To become a grocery buyer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or a related field. Relevant skills include inventory management, negotiation, and knowledge of food products, often gained through experience in retail or supply chain roles. Certification in purchasing or supply chain management can enhance prospects.
More about Buyer Food jobs
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What states have the most Buyer Food jobs? States with the most job openings for Buyer Food jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Buyer Food jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Buyer Food jobs are:
Buyer Food jobs near you
Associate Buyer

Associate Buyer

International Shoppes LLC

Valley Stream, NY • On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Senior Buyer – Food & Gifts

Position Summary


The Senior Buyer – Food & Gifts is responsible for sourcing, purchasing, and managing a profitable assortment of food and gift merchandise. This role develops category strategies, negotiates with vendors, analyzes sales and inventory performance, and ensures products align with customer demand and business objectives.


Key Responsibilities


  • Develop and execute buying strategies for food and gift categories.
  • Source new products and manage vendor relationships.
  • Negotiate pricing, contracts, and delivery terms.
  • Analyze sales, inventory, and market trends to optimize product assortment and profitability.
  • Forecast demand and manage inventory to maintain appropriate stock levels.
  • Partner with merchandising, marketing, operations, and finance to support promotions and seasonal initiatives.
  • Monitor supplier performance and ensure quality, regulatory, and delivery standards are met.
  • Manage purchase orders, budgets, and category performance.
  • Identify opportunities to improve margins, reduce costs, and drive sales.


Qualifications


  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Merchandising, Supply Chain, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years of buying experience, preferably in food, gift, specialty retail, or consumer products.
  • Strong negotiation, analytical, and organizational skills.
  • Experience with inventory planning, forecasting, and category management.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP or purchasing systems.
  • Excellent communication and relationship management skills.


Success Measures


  • Sales and margin growth
  • Inventory turnover and forecast accuracy
  • Product availability
  • Vendor performance
  • Cost savings and profitability