Job Title: Produce Buyer & Merchandiser

Location: Rainbow Acres Natural Foods, Venice, CA
Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Reports to: Merchandising Manager / Store Director

Position Summary

The Produce Buyer & Merchandiser is responsible for ordering, merchandising, and maintaining the highest quality standards in the produce department while delivering exceptional customer service. This position ensures the department is fully stocked, properly rotated, attractively displayed, and meeting sales and margin goals. The Buyer works closely with the Merchandising Manager and Produce Clerks to maintain quality, freshness, and presentation standards that reflect the values of Rainbow Acres.

Core Responsibilities

Customer Service

• Provide friendly, helpful service to customers at all times.
• Answer questions about produce items, including organic vs. conventional, storage tips, and ripeness.
• Offer product suggestions, seasonal recommendations, and preparation ideas.
• Maintain a positive presence on the sales floor.

Buying & Ordering

• Order produce daily to maintain proper stock levels while minimizing shrink.
• Monitor sales, movement, and seasonal trends to adjust orders.
• Work with approved vendors to ensure best quality, pricing, and availability.
• Verify invoices for accuracy and report discrepancies.
• Maintain inventory levels appropriate for department size and sales volume.

Merchandising & Displays

• Maintain full, fresh, and attractive produce displays at all times.
• Follow store merchandising standards and direction from the Merchandising Manager.
• Rotate product using FIFO standards.
• Check quality throughout the day and remove damaged or spoiled items.
• Ensure all signage and pricing are accurate.

Receiving & Quality Control

• Receive deliveries and check for quality, freshness, and accuracy.
• Reject product that does not meet Rainbow Acres standards.
• Store product correctly in coolers and backstock areas.
• Keep receiving and storage areas clean and organized.

Department Cleanliness & Food Safety

• Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary department at all times.
• Follow all food safety procedures and health department requirements.
• Clean displays, prep areas, and coolers as scheduled.
• Follow proper handling procedures for cut and packaged produce.

Teamwork & Communication

• Work closely with Produce Clerks to keep the department stocked and organized.
• Communicate regularly with the Merchandising Manager regarding sales, shrink, and product needs.
• Assist with training and supporting clerks as needed.
• Maintain a cooperative and respectful team environment.

Profit & Performance

• Help the department meet or exceed sales and margin goals.
• Control shrink through accurate ordering and proper rotation.
• Support promotions, ads, and seasonal displays.
• Maintain strong in-stock conditions without over-ordering.

Key Qualifications

• 1–2 years produce or grocery ordering experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Ability to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work on feet for extended periods.
• Organized, dependable, and detail-oriented.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to make sound decisions regarding quality and ordering.

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Fresh, full, and attractive produce displays throughout the day.
• Accurate ordering with minimal shrink.
• Clean, safe, and organized department.
• Positive customer feedback.
• Department meets sales and margin goals.
• Strong teamwork within a small department.