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Buyer In Training Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview As a Customer Specialist in Training, you will be empowered to deliver an iconic ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

As an ABI, we invest in you through structured training and one on one apprenticeship with a skilled Buyer. You will begin to build your product knowledge, operational expertise, concepts of off ...

As an ABI, we invest in you through structured training and one on one apprenticeship with a skilled Buyer. You will begin to build your product knowledge, operational expertise, concepts of off ...

As an ABI, we invest in you through structured training and one on one apprenticeship with a skilled Buyer. You will begin to build your product knowledge, operational expertise, concepts of off ...

As an ABI, we invest in you through structured training and one on one apprenticeship with a skilled Buyer. You will begin to build your product knowledge, operational expertise, concepts of off ...

As an ABI, we invest in you through structured training and one on one apprenticeship with a skilled Buyer You will begin to build your product knowledge, operational expertise, concepts of off-price ...

Manager In Training

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Experience:** - Proven experience in retail sales, with a focus on selling, buying, negotiating ... team. - Experience in training development to enhance staff skills and product knowledge ...

Manager In Training

Hanford, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Experience:** - Proven experience in retail sales, with a focus on selling, buying, negotiating ... team. - Experience in training development to enhance staff skills and product knowledge ...

Experience:** - Proven experience in retail sales, with a focus on selling, buying, negotiating ... team. - Experience in training development to enhance staff skills and product knowledge ...

Buyer

Alameda, CA · On-site

The Buyer is responsible for managing an Assistant Buyer and/or Associate Buyer and will guide their professional development through training, coaching, and feedback. In this role, you will: Own the ...

The Buyer is responsible for managing an Assistant Buyer and/or Associate Buyer and will guide their professional development through training, coaching, and feedback. In this role, you will: Own the ...

Buyer II-III

Roseville, CA · On-site

$78K - $125K/yr

The Buyer is responsible for supporting the sourcing, value analysis, bidding, negotiation ... May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

... in a manufacturing company, including experience leading negotiations and managing key supplier relationships. * Prior experience mentoring, training, or informally leading other buyers or purchasing ...

Senior Buyer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... in a manufacturing company, including experience leading negotiations and managing key supplier relationships. * Prior experience mentoring, training, or informally leading other buyers or purchasing ...

Showing results 21-40

Buyer In Training information

See California salary details

$26.6K

$61.8K

$99.2K

How much do buyer in training jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for buyer in training in California is $61,840.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a buyer in training, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Buyer In Training, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a bachelor's degree in business, supply chain, or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software, inventory management systems, and Microsoft Excel is typically required. Effective communication, negotiation skills, and a willingness to learn help candidates stand out in this fast-paced environment. These abilities ensure accurate purchasing decisions, vendor relationship management, and smooth supply chain operations.

What are some common challenges faced by a buyer in training and how can they be overcome?

As a Buyer In Training, a common challenge is quickly learning to analyze sales data and market trends to make informed purchasing decisions. Adapting to a fast-paced retail or supply chain environment and managing multiple vendor relationships can also be demanding. Successful trainees overcome these challenges by seeking mentorship from experienced buyers, actively participating in team meetings, and using feedback to improve their negotiation and analytical skills. Building strong communication and organizational habits early on will also help you navigate this dynamic role effectively.

What is a buyer in training?

A Buyer In Training is an entry-level professional who is learning the skills and processes involved in purchasing goods or services for a company. They typically work under the supervision of experienced buyers or purchasing managers and receive on-the-job training in areas such as vendor negotiation, inventory management, and market analysis. This role is designed to prepare individuals for advancement to full buyer positions. Buyer In Training roles are common in retail, manufacturing, and supply chain industries. The position offers valuable experience and a foundation for a career in procurement or supply chain management.

How to get a job as a buyer in training with no experience?

To become a Buyer in Training with no experience, focus on developing skills in inventory management, negotiation, and basic supply chain concepts through online courses or certifications. Entry-level positions often require strong communication, organizational skills, and a willingness to learn on the job, with some companies providing on-the-job training for newcomers.

What is the difference between Buyer In Training vs Buyer?

AspectBuyer In TrainingBuyer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate's or bachelor's degree often preferred; relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised, retail or wholesale settingsMore autonomous, involved in negotiations and inventory management
Industry UsageUsed as a training position within retail and wholesale sectorsFull professional role with increased responsibilities

The main difference between a Buyer In Training and a Buyer is experience and responsibility. A Buyer In Training is an entry-level position focused on learning the basics of procurement, often under supervision. A Buyer has more experience, handles negotiations, and manages purchasing decisions independently. Both roles are common in retail and wholesale industries, but the Buyer position requires more credentials and industry knowledge.

What cities in California are hiring for Buyer In Training jobs? Cities in California with the most Buyer In Training job openings:
Infographic showing various Buyer In Training job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,840 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Customer Specialist in Training

Carmax

Victorville, CA • On-site

$20.60 - $30.90/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


CarMax rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 732 rated retailers


Job description

6157 - Victorville - 14795 Civic Drive, Victorville, California, 92394

CarMax, the way your career should be! 

 

Position Overview

As a Customer Specialist in Training, you will be empowered to deliver an iconic, customer-first experience that defines CarMax. Acting as a trusted guide, you’ll support customers through every step of their journey—whether buying, selling, or servicing vehicles—while reinforcing our simple, transparent process. This role offers hands-on learning in a fast-paced environment, where you’ll manage diverse tasks such as vehicle sales, appraisal support, paperwork processing, and repair order coordination. At CarMax, honesty and integrity are the foundation of our success, and those same values will help you thrive.

Why CarMax?

At CarMax, we are the nation’s largest retailer of used cars with stores from coast to coast, and we are still growing. We’re rethinking the way people buy cars – and our associates help us do just that. We believe work should feel meaningful and rewarding, with opportunities to make an impact every day. Whether you’re advancing your career or growing your skillset, we are here to drive you forward.

Role Responsibilities

  • Deliver exceptional customer service by guiding customers through sales, appraisals, test drives, and financing applications.
  • Conduct accurate vehicle condition assessments, documenting details for appraisals and communicating findings to Buyers.
  • Manage inventory processes, including vehicle check-in, daily scanning, and reconciliation.
  • Perform cosmetic inspections to ensure vehicles meet CarMax Quality Standards.
  • Handle administrative tasks such as printing reports, maintaining transaction paperwork, auditing documents, and managing payments.
  • Coordinate service appointments, review repair order invoices for accuracy in billing, and collaborate effectively across teams to maintain a smooth, customer-focused experience.
  • Follow CarMax Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) requirements and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

Required Qualifications

  • Strong communication skills with confidence in representing CarMax and its products.
  • Ability to build lasting relationships and create win-win solutions for customers.
  • Demonstrated integrity, respect, and teamwork in a fast-paced environment.
  • Skilled in balancing customer needs with business goals and following processes accurately.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, maintain attention to detail, and meet deadlines.
  • High School Diploma or equivalent and a valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and accurately read and transcribe data.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Sales or customer service experience in retail or similar environments.
  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

About CarMax

At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by introducing transparency and integrity into the process. Our commitment to customer experience, innovation, and community has made us the nation’s largest used car retailer. With over 250 store locations and over 30,000 associates, we are proud to have been recognized as one of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® and are committed to helping our communities thrive.

As an associate, you are part of an innovative movement to empower the modern customer and drive progress. Your work fuels change—sparking ideas, overcoming challenges, and shaping what’s next. Join us in creating a better future– for our company, our customers, and the communities we call home.

CarMax is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The hourly rate for this position is:

$20.60 - $30.90

Benefits:

Except as otherwise required by state law, CarMax Associates are entitled to the following paid sick, vacation, and holiday time.

Associates that are considered full-time hourly or commission/incentive eligible:

  • To earn up to 48 hours of sick time per year accrued on a per pay period basis and between 80 hours and 200 hours per year of vacation time after a 90 day waiting period depending on years of continuous service with the Company. 
  • For 8 hours of pay for each of a total of 6 paid scheduled holidays per year plus 1 floating holiday.  If such an Associate does work on a scheduled holiday due to business need, they are eligible for Holiday Premium Pay. 

Associates considered full-time salaried are entitled to paid time away with no specified limit as needed for sick, vacation, bereavement, jury duty, holidays, floating holiday, etc. subject to manager approval. 

For more details about benefits, please visit our CarMax Benefits website.

Upon an applicant's request, CarMax will consider reasonable accommodation to complete the CarMax Job Application.


What CarMax employees say

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Benefits

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Workplace

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CarMax logo

About CarMax

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CarMax disrupted the auto industry by delivering the honest, transparent and high-integrity experience customers want and deserve. This innovative thinking around the way cars are bought and sold has helped us become the nation's largest retailer of used cars, with over 200 locations nationwide. Our amazing team of more than 25,000 associates work together to deliver iconic customer experiences. Along the way, we help every associate grow their career and achieve their best, at work and in their community. We are recognized for our commitment to training and diversity and are one of the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For®.

Industry

Automobile dealers and finance and insurance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Henrico, VA, US