Buyer - Produce

Produce BuyerAbout Bandwagon Established in 1988, Bandwagon is a highly respected wholesale produce provider. Our mission is to deliver the highest quality fresh specialty produce in all categories of fruits and vegetables from all corners of the world. We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service, strong grower relationships, and a deep knowledge of produce markets.Position Summary As a Produce Buyer, you will be responsible for sourcing, selecting, and purchasing fresh produce and specialty items to meet customer demand and service expectations while maintaining optimal inventory levels. This role requires strong knowledge of produce markets, grower relationships, seasonal availability, and the ability to analyze buying trends and market conditions to support company objectives. You will work closely with growers, suppliers, sales, and operations teams to ensure product quality, competitive pricing, timely delivery, and profitability.Key Responsibilities / Essential FunctionsWalk the LA Produce Market daily to inspect produce for quality, freshness, grading, and pricing opportunitiesSource, select, and purchase fresh produce and specialty items from growers, distributors, and suppliersNegotiate pricing, freight terms, and purchase agreements to ensure timely delivery and competitive costsResearch and introduce new items to the sales team to expand product offeringsBuild and maintain strong relationships with growers, suppliers, and logistics partnersUnderstand and communicate seasonal and growing conditions, market trends, pricing, product movement, and sales trendsCoordinate and secure freight or transportation as neededInspect inbound products for quality, grade, defects, and compliance with company standards when requiredMaintain accurate inventory levels and product identification for optimal turns, freshness, and profitabilitySupport team goals related to customer service, accuracy, productivity, and departmental objectivesAssist in managing product rotation, inventory turns, and reporting as neededTrack and communicate pricing trends, product movement, and sales patterns to support planning and forecastingAssist other team members as needed to ensure efficient daily operations and support company objectivesFood Safety & ComplianceFollow company food safety policies, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)Ensure purchased products meet all company quality, food safety, and regulatory standardsMaintain proper documentation related to product sourcing, traceability, and inspectionsParticipate in food safety training and complete required documentationFollow company safety procedures and report unsafe conditions or actions to managementSupport company food safety programs, audits, and regulatory compliance effortsQualifications and SkillsKnowledge of USDA grading, conditioning, and proper storage temperature requirementsKnowledge of specialty produce characteristics, quality standards, and seasonal growing trendsFamiliarity with PACA rulesMinimum 3–5 years of experience in wholesale produce buying preferredExperience with Produce Pro or similar produce management software is a plusStrong negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skillsAbility to analyze pricing trends, inventory levels, and sales data to make purchasing decisionsHigh attention to detail and strong problem-solving abilitiesCreativity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learnIntegrity, ethics, and professionalismAbility to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environmentBilingual in Spanish preferred, not requiredPhysical RequirementsAbility to lift, move, or inspect product cases up to 60 lbsAbility to stand and walk for long periods, including walking the LA Produce MarketAbility to work in refrigerated warehouse environments as neededOccasional travel to markets, suppliers, or warehouses may be requiredSchedule and CompensationSchedule determined by business needs, including early morning market visitsCompetitive salary based on experienceBenefits: Vision, Dental, and Medical InsuranceProfit-sharing planPaid time off and holiday payEEO Statement Bandwagon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, status as a covered veteran, or any other category protected under applicable federal, state, and local laws.Reasonable Accommodations Statement Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.E-Verify Participation Statement Bandwagon participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility in the United States.