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Buyer Trainee Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview As a Sales Consultant Trainee, you will be the foundation of an iconic, customer ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

Position Overview As a Sales Consultant Trainee, you will be the foundation of an iconic, customer ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

Position Overview As a Sales Consultant Trainee, you will be the foundation of an iconic, customer ... About CarMax At CarMax, we revolutionized the used car buying experience over 30 years ago by ...

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Buyer Trainee information

See Indiana salary details

$13

$20

$34

How much do buyer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for buyer trainee in Indiana is $20.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a buyer trainee?

Buyer Trainees are entry-level professionals who assist experienced buyers or purchasing managers in sourcing and acquiring goods and services for a company. They learn procurement processes, evaluate suppliers, negotiate prices, and help manage inventory under supervision. This role serves as a training ground for individuals interested in a career in purchasing, supply chain, or procurement, providing hands-on experience with vendor relations and contract management. Buyer Trainees often advance to more senior purchasing roles after gaining experience and demonstrating their skills.

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

To thrive as a Buyer Trainee, you need a foundational understanding of supply chain management, strong analytical abilities, and usually a bachelor's degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software, inventory management systems, and Microsoft Excel is often required. Attention to detail, negotiation skills, and effective communication set top candidates apart. These skills ensure efficient purchasing processes, cost savings, and productive relationships with suppliers.

What are some common challenges faced by buyer trainees during their first year, and how can these be addressed?

Buyer Trainees often find it challenging to quickly learn the nuances of supplier negotiation, inventory management, and understanding the specific needs of their organization. Adapting to the fast-paced environment and balancing multiple tasks, such as purchase order tracking and vendor communication, can also be demanding. These challenges can be addressed through active mentorship, ongoing training, and proactively seeking feedback from senior buyers and cross-functional teams. Building strong organizational and communication skills early on can help Buyer Trainees navigate their responsibilities more effectively.

What is the difference between Buyer Trainee vs Buyer?

AspectBuyer TraineeBuyer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer associate degreeBachelor's degree often preferred; relevant certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, training-focused, often in retail or procurement departmentsFull responsibility for purchasing decisions, more autonomous, in various industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in retail, manufacturing, and logistics as an entry pointUsed across industries for ongoing procurement roles

The Buyer Trainee position is an entry-level role designed to develop skills in procurement, often with on-the-job training. A Buyer, on the other hand, is a more experienced professional responsible for making purchasing decisions. While both roles involve procurement, the Buyer Trainee is typically in a learning phase, whereas the Buyer has greater autonomy and experience.

How to get a job as a buyer trainee with no experience?

To become a buyer trainee with no experience, focus on developing basic skills in supply chain management, negotiation, and inventory control through online courses or certifications. Entry-level positions often value strong communication, organizational skills, and a willingness to learn, so gaining relevant knowledge and demonstrating enthusiasm can improve your chances.

Is being a buyer trainee a stressful job?

Buyer trainees often work in fast-paced environments where they must meet deadlines and manage supplier relationships, which can contribute to stress. However, the level of stress varies depending on the company's workload, industry, and individual skills in negotiation and organization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Buyer jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Buyer jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Buyer Trainee job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,860 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Sales Consultant - Full Time

CarMax, Inc.

Merrillville, IN • On-site

$7.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


CarMax rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 372 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 734 rated retailers


Job description

7180 - Merrillville - 1370 East 79th Place, Merrillville, Indiana, 46410
CarMax, the way your career should be!
Position Overview
As a Sales Consultant Trainee, you will be the foundation of an iconic, customer-first experience at CarMax. Your mission is to build genuine relationships, understand customer needs, and guide them toward the right vehicle-not just the most expensive one. This role offers paid training and mentorship, equipping you with the tools to succeed in auto sales without prior experience. Bring your ability to connect with people and your passion for learning, and we'll help you grow into a future mentor, manager, or business leader. At CarMax, honesty and transparency drive everything we do-and they'll help you thrive, too.
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
  • Assist customers in finding vehicles that fit their needs using your knowledge of CarMax inventory.
  • Guide customers through the entire process, including appraisals, test drives, and financing applications.
  • Deliver an exceptional experience by listening actively and providing clear, honest information.
  • Complete accurate documentation for all transactions to ensure a smooth and transparent process.
  • Collaborate with team members to meet customer needs and achieve store goals.
  • Maintain a professional, customer-first approach in every interaction, and stay informed about CarMax products, services, and promotions to better serve customers.
  • Follow CarMax Environmental, Health and Safety (EH&S) requirements and maintain a clean and orderly work area.

Required Qualifications
  • Sales or customer service experience in retail or similar environments preferred.
  • Strong listening and communication skills with a customer-focused mindset.
  • High level of self-motivation and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Comfort with technology for processing transactions and accessing inventory information.
  • Ability to adapt in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Commitment to integrity and transparency in every customer interaction.
  • Willingness to learn and grow through CarMax-provided training and mentorship.

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:
$7.75 - $20.00
Commissions:
This position is eligible for commission.
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 commissioned are 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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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