1

Food Broker Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

At UniFirst, we’re a global leader in uniform rental and facility service solutions for businesses across industries - from manufacturing and food processing to healthcare and hospitality. With ...

From oil and gas to water and shipping, pharmaceuticals and food- these are the flows on which our modern world depends. Today we're respected and admired for our people, performance and products.

From oil and gas to water and shipping, pharmaceuticals and food- these are the flows on which our modern world depends. Today we're respected and admired for our people, performance and products.

New

From oil and gas to water and shipping, pharmaceuticals and food- these are the flows on which our modern world depends. Today we're respected and admired for our people, performance and products.

New

Food Broker information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$24.5K

$64K

$112.3K

How much do food broker jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for food broker in Baton Rouge, LA is $64,026.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,100.00 and $72,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food broker?

Food brokers are intermediaries who represent food manufacturers or producers in selling their products to retailers, wholesalers, and foodservice operators. They do not take ownership of the products but act as a bridge between producers and buyers, helping to negotiate deals, manage relationships, and ensure that products reach store shelves or restaurant menus. Food brokers use their industry knowledge and contacts to increase product visibility and sales, often working with multiple brands at once. Their services can save manufacturers time and resources while helping retailers find new and popular products.

What does a food broker do?

As a food broker, your main responsibilities are to negotiate and sell food products to wholesale retail stores, distributors, or to other food manufacturers who need the raw ingredients you sell to make their own products. Your duties include meeting with manufacturers, producers, or wholesalers to determine their costs and desired sales. You assess current supply and inventory and meet with other wholesalers or retailers hoping to buy your products. Often, you represent several manufacturers or retailers and negotiate multiple deals at a time.

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

To thrive as a Food Broker, you need strong sales skills, market knowledge, and a background in business or food-related industries, often supported by relevant experience or a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CRM software, sales analytics tools, and knowledge of food distribution systems are typically required. Exceptional negotiation, relationship-building, and communication skills help a Food Broker stand out when connecting manufacturers with retailers. These abilities are crucial for effectively promoting products, securing deals, and driving business growth in a competitive marketplace.

How does a food broker typically collaborate with manufacturers and retailers to ensure successful product placement?

Food Brokers act as vital intermediaries between food manufacturers and retailers, working closely with both to secure shelf space and optimize product placement. They regularly communicate with manufacturers to understand product features, promotions, and supply capabilities, then present these products to retail buyers, negotiating terms and ensuring compliance with store requirements. Successful Food Brokers often visit retail locations to monitor stock levels and merchandising, troubleshoot issues, and gather market feedback, making strong relationship-building and communication skills essential for the role.

What is the difference between Food Broker vs Food Sales Representative?

AspectFood Broker
CredentialsTypically requires knowledge of food industry regulations, sales skills, and sometimes a license or certification in food safety or sales
Work EnvironmentWorks independently or with multiple food manufacturers, often traveling to meet clients and attend trade shows
Employer & Industry UsageHired by food manufacturers or distributors to promote and sell products to retailers and wholesalers

Food brokers act as intermediaries between food producers and retailers, focusing on product promotion and sales. Food sales representatives usually work directly for a specific company, selling their products to clients. While both roles involve sales and industry knowledge, food brokers often handle multiple brands and require strong networking skills, whereas food sales reps focus on a single company's offerings and may have more direct customer relationships.

What are popular job titles related to Food Broker jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Food Broker jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Food Broker jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Food Broker jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Food Broker jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Food Broker job openings:

Infographic showing various Food Broker job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,026 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Category Manager - Produce & Floral

Associated Grocers

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Ready to elevate your career? Associated Grocers is the company for you! We're currently seeking a Category Manager - Produce & Floral to join our dynamic team. The Category Manager – Produce & Floral is responsible for driving sales growth and profitability through strategic sourcing, assortment planning, and effective price negotiation to meet retailer needs. This role evaluates product performance and develops impactful promotional strategies that align with corporate initiatives. The position also oversees inventory and service levels to ensure optimal in-stock performance. By building strong relationships with retailers, account managers, vendors, and brokers, the Category Manager identifies opportunities and delivers programs that support category growth and overall business success. 

Competitive pay, weekly paychecks, a comprehensive benefits package, 401(k) retirement plan, Paid Time Off starting at hire, and a supportive, team-oriented work environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  1. Negotiate cost and recommend item, price and quantity needs for all promotional activities.
  2. Monitor vendor price list and initiate price changes.
  3. Meet with vendors to discuss new items, deal sheets, price changes and slow moving items.
  4. Analyze categories for correct product mix.
  5. Evaluate slow moving items for discontinuing.       
  6. Responsible for procuring and managing the inventory and service levels to meet the needs of the customer and corporate goals.
  7. Manages freight operations by collaborating with vendors and the internal freight management team to ensure efficient, cost-effective logistics.
  8. Monitor inventory positions and insure corporate turn goals met.
  9. Work with retail merchandising team to increase sales through current merchandising programs or new programs.
  10. Assist in food show and seminar preparations.
  11. Assist Retailers with problems.
  12. Visit stores to improve communication and awareness of retailers’ needs.
  13. Monitor category profits and sales to meet company goals.
  14. Work closely with operations personnel to positively impact overall corporate results.

Education and/or Experience                   

Bachelor's degree (B. A.) from four-year college or university; or equivalent experience is required.  

Computer Skills                   

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of Microsoft Applications including Excel and Word.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

Maintain an appropriate motor vehicle record.

Other Skills and Abilities 

  1. Knowledge of produce/perishable products and markets
  2. Outstanding negotiation skills
  3. Good communication and organizational skills
  4. Operate harmoniously and cooperatively with others within and outside of department. Must promote a positive work environment.