Company description

Established in 1983, Upper Valley Produce was built upon the foundation of family values. We started with one delivery truck and one simple goal, to provide the Upper Connecticut River Valley with high quality produce. Over the years, we developed a reputation for providing exceptional service with loyal devotion to our customers.

In 2008, Upper Valley Produce was purchased by James Gordon and Eric Frechette and officially became a Vermont Grassroots Company. Building on the values that define us, we embraced the opportunity to branch out beyond the Connecticut River Valley. Our roots now reach all corners of Vermont, New Hampshire and Massachusetts, distributing regionally responsible and locally sourced products to a variety of institutions seeking the best quality ingredients available. We enjoy the leadership role as the largest locally owned, independently run wholesaler in the region.

Job description

Looking for an individual who displays a passion for produce. knows product, and market trends and can be adaptable in an everchanging environment. the goal of any buyer is to source the best quality product at the best available price. to be successful in this role the produce buyer will need to have a strong purchasing background, negotiation skills, excellent computer skills, be a great communicator, and have a positive, resilient attitude. the buyer muse be able to work in a FAST-PACED environment with diverse personalities. Will need to have the right combination of salesmanship, aggressiveness, friendliness and honesty. This role is also responsible for maintaining, leading and managing food safety initiatives.

Role and Responsibilities
· Sourcing & supplier management – work within an existing network of vendors while hunting down new leads that fit within the mission of UVP. Maintain relationships with local growers and be able to onboard new vendors.

· Market analysis & forecasting – monitoring market trends, seasonality, availability and pricing of products to meet business demands

· Inventory & logistics – manage perishable inventory to fulfill orders & coordinate timely delivery of products

· Quality assurance – inspect incoming product to ensure specifications are being met, and coordinate with vendors if issues arise, under and maintain shrink levels

· Collaboration – work with multiple departments to align product offerings with business demands

· Food Safety Program Lead – create, implement, maintain food safety program to ensure compliance. Upon completion of all certifications annual salary can be increased.

Travel & Equipment – Schedule is primarily Mon-Friday with on call flexibility to provide operational support
· Vendor visits, Trade Shows – Monthly Schedule

· Laptop

· Cell Phone

Skill & Requirements
· 3-5 years of experience working with food or in the purchasing field

· Motivated & enthusiastic

· Organized, strategic thinking

· Working knowledge of the food industry

· Computer skills – adaptable to technology

· Effective communication – verbal & written

· Working knowledge of GMPs & Food Safety is ideal but will provide necessary training & education

BENEFITS

· Health Insurance & Aflac

· Retirement with 3% match

· 2 Weeks PTO after 90 days

Profit sharing monthly after 90 days based on company performance.

Compensation

this position is: salaried, $50,000 - $75,000

Application instructions

Deadline

January 31, 2026