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Buyer Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Floor Sales Consultant

Ontario, CA · On-site

$16.91 - $20/hr

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

Sales Consultant

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$16.91 - $20/hr

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

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Buyer Trainee information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$22

$37

How much do buyer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for buyer trainee in Riverside, CA is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 much does a trainee buyer earn?

A trainee buyer typically earns between $30,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. Entry-level positions may start lower, but with training and skill development, salaries can increase as they gain more responsibilities and certifications.

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 are Buyer Trainees?

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.

How do you become a buyer with no experience?

To become a buyer trainee with no experience, focus on developing skills in negotiation, inventory management, and supplier relations. Entry-level positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent, and gaining familiarity with procurement software or industry-specific tools can improve your chances. Internships or related roles in retail or supply chain can also provide valuable experience.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Buyer Trainee typically does not earn $10,000 a month without significant experience or advancement. High-paying roles that can reach this level often involve sales, entrepreneurship, or specialized trades, but they usually require skills, certifications, or proven performance rather than just a job title. Most roles paying this salary level without a degree are rare and often involve commission-based income or business ownership.

What is the role of a trainee buyer?

A trainee buyer assists in purchasing goods and services for a company, learning how to evaluate suppliers, negotiate prices, and manage inventory. They typically work under the supervision of experienced buyers and develop skills in market research, vendor relations, and procurement processes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Buyer jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Buyer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Buyer Trainee jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Buyer Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Buyer Trainee job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,894 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Floor Sales Consultant

Floor Sales Consultant

CarMax, Inc.

Ontario, CA • On-site

$16.91 - $20/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 13 days ago


CarMax rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 367 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 714 rated retailers


Job description

7120 - Ontario - 4100 Inland Empire Blvd, Ontario, California, 91764
CarMax, the way your career should be!
Position Overview
As a CA Sales Consultant Trainee, you will be the face of CarMax, delivering an iconic customer experience that sets us apart. Your mission is to help customers find the right vehicle for their lifestyle-not just the most expensive option-by building genuine relationships and understanding their needs. At CarMax, honesty and transparency are the foundation of our success, and those same qualities will help you thrive in this role.
No prior auto sales experience? No problem! We provide paid training, a dedicated personal sales mentor, and continuous development opportunities. If you bring strong interpersonal skills and a passion for helping people, we'll give you the tools to succeed. This role offers career growth potential, with paths to mentorship, management, and leadership for those ready to learn and excel.
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:
$16.91 - $20.00
Incentives:
In the state of California this position is eligible for incentives and bonuses.
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.

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