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Fresh Produce Buyer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reporting to the Produce Category Manager, the Produce Buyer will be responsible for sourcing and procuring a broad range of fresh produce while ensuring product availability, quality, competitive ...

PRODUCE BUYER

Spokane, WA · On-site

$30/hr

... finest quality fresh produce and related products combined with a superior level of customer ... As a member of our Buying team, this position is responsible for identifying and procuring ...

... finest quality fresh produce and related products combined with a superior level of customer ... As a member of our Buying team, this position is responsible for identifying and procuring ...

PRODUCE BUYER

Spokane, WA · On-site

$30/hr

... finest quality fresh produce and related products combined with a superior level of customer ... As a member of our Buying team, this position is responsible for identifying and procuring ...

Produce Buyer

Middlebury, VT · On-site

$20.25 - $23/hr

Our growing Produce department features a vast and always changing array of fresh produce, a large ... We are seeking a Produce Buyer to join a team known for its excellent customer service skills and ...

Produce & Dairy Buyer Location : Medley, FL 33178 Department : Purchasing Reports to: Purchasing ... Create and manage purchase orders for fresh stock and regular reorders. * Ensure suppliers confirm ...

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Fresh Produce Buyer information

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$14

$26

$43

How much do fresh produce buyer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for fresh produce buyer in the United States is $26.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $35.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fresh produce buyer?

To thrive as a Fresh Produce Buyer, you need strong negotiation skills, market analysis abilities, and a solid understanding of produce quality standards, often supported by experience in procurement or supply chain management. Familiarity with inventory management systems, ERP software, and knowledge of food safety regulations are typically required. Excellent communication, relationship-building, and decision-making skills help buyers work effectively with suppliers and internal teams. These competencies ensure the consistent sourcing of high-quality, cost-effective produce while minimizing risks and meeting organizational goals.

What is the difference between Fresh Produce Buyer vs Produce Procurement Specialist?

AspectFresh Produce BuyerProduce Procurement Specialist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer certifications in supply chain or food safetySimilar credentials; certifications in procurement or supply chain management are common
Work EnvironmentRetail stores, wholesale markets, or foodservice companiesFood production companies, distributors, or large grocery chains
Industry UsageUsed in retail and wholesale food sectorsPrimarily in procurement and supply chain departments
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for purchasing roles in fresh produceRelated but more focused on procurement processes

The main difference is that a Fresh Produce Buyer focuses on purchasing fresh produce directly for retail or foodservice, while a Produce Procurement Specialist handles broader procurement strategies and supplier negotiations within supply chain operations. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, but their focus areas differ slightly.

What are some common challenges fresh produce buyers face when sourcing high-quality products?

Fresh Produce Buyers often encounter challenges such as fluctuating market prices, seasonal availability, and ensuring consistent quality from suppliers. They must quickly adapt to weather-related disruptions or supply chain issues that can affect product availability. Building strong relationships with growers and staying up-to-date with market trends are essential to overcoming these obstacles and ensuring their company receives the freshest produce at competitive prices.
More about Fresh Produce Buyer jobs

What cities are hiring for Fresh Produce Buyer jobs?

Cities with the most Fresh Produce Buyer job openings:

What states have the most Fresh Produce Buyer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Fresh Produce Buyer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Fresh Produce Buyer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,442 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking a driven, detail-oriented Produce Buyer to join our growing Produce team. Reporting to the Produce Category Manager, the Produce Buyer will be responsible for sourcing and procuring a broad range of fresh produce while ensuring product availability, quality, competitive pricing, and exceptional service levels. This role plays a key part in maintaining strong supplier relationships, supporting sales growth, and driving operational excellence across the produce category.

Key Responsibilities

  • Source and manage vendor relationships, selecting suppliers based on product quality, consistent supply, service performance, and responsiveness to changing market conditions.
  • Maintain accurate item, vendor, and pricing data within the company's Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.
  • Resolve invoicing, product, and delivery discrepancies by collaborating with internal departments and external vendors to ensure timely resolution and strong business relationships.
  • Utilize the company's demand planning, reporting, and business intelligence tools to support purchasing decisions and inventory management.
  • Maintain the company's industry-leading fulfillment standard of 98.5% or greater.
  • Anticipate seasonal demand, market trends, supply chain challenges, and product availability to proactively develop sourcing strategies and identify acceptable product substitutions.
  • Negotiate pricing, purchase quantities, promotional opportunities, and vendor agreements to maximize profitability while meeting customer needs.
  • Manage forward buys and promotional purchases while optimizing warehouse capacity and inventory levels.
  • Monitor commodity markets and publish regular market updates in partnership with Purchasing Management.
  • Stay informed on seasonal trends, market conditions, and emerging products, while partnering with Sales and other departments to expand existing product lines and introduce new offerings.
  • Work closely with Quality Control, Receiving, Operations, and Sales to maintain the highest standards for product quality, on-time delivery, and customer satisfaction.
  • Participate in weekly purchasing meetings and ongoing professional development opportunities.
  • Partner with vendors and internal teams to manage aging inventory, inbound freight claims, damaged product, and inventory recovery efforts.  
  • Support Purchasing Management in identifying category growth opportunities across domestic and imported produce, including evaluating current assortments and recommending product expansions.
  • Strengthen existing supplier partnerships while actively identifying and developing new sourcing opportunities.
  • Provide the Sales team with product specifications, pricing updates, availability information, and recommendations on new and existing products.

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Qualifications

  • 3+ years of purchasing experience in fresh produce or a closely related category.
  • Strong understanding of produce markets, seasonality, commodity pricing, and supply chain dynamics.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel; experience with ERP systems and purchasing software is preferred.
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced environment.
  • Strong analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to build relationships at all levels of the organization, including senior leadership and ownership.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to prioritize work, meet deadlines, and work independently.
  • Collaborative team player with a proactive approach to continuous improvement and process optimization.