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Meat Buyer (COP)
Career Insights for Food / Beverage Buyer
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Scorecard
Based on Georgia data
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What they do
A Food or Beverage Buyer is responsible for sourcing and purchasing the food and drink needed for ongoing or future business in a restaurant, bar, hotel or other catering business. Responsible for maintaining supplier relationships. May also be responsible growing supplier relationships with new and/or existing suppliers.
$60,159 / year median in Georgia
-4% projected decline
Job Description
Fortune 500-level food distributor If you're a fresh‑protein buyer who thrives in a fast‑moving market — boxed beef, pork, ground beef, patties, cut steaks, lamb, veal — this role puts you at the center of one of the most margin‑critical categories in food distribution. You'll negotiate directly with packers, secure supply, manage inventory, and keep customers stocked with the products they rely on every day. Compensation & Benefits Up to $100K total compensation in year one Fortune 500-level benefits: Medical, dental, vision Excellent matching 401(k) Robust insurance + wellness programs Additional employee perks Real career progression across a national network Key Responsibilities Purchase fresh beef, pork, lamb, and veal based on demand and market conditions Negotiate pricing, quantities, freight, and long‑term agreements Select suppliers based on reliability, quality, and value Maintain strong in‑stock levels and respond to urgent sourcing needs Support special orders and ensure timely fulfillment Provide product and pricing info to sales; recommend pricing structures Collaborate with operations, category management, and finance Perform additional duties to support departmental goals Required Qualifications High School Diploma/GED (Bachelor's preferred) 2+ years purchasing fresh commodities — boxed beef, pork, ground beef, patties, cut steaks, lamb/veal ( required ) Background in wholesale food, retail food, foodservice distribution, or multi‑unit restaurant purchasing Strong negotiation, communication, and vendor‑management skills Ability to analyze market trends and make informed decisions Organized, detail‑oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities Why This Role Matters Fresh protein is fast‑moving, high‑stakes, and margin‑critical — and you'll be the one steering it. If you want a role where your expertise directly impacts cost, service levels, and customer satisfaction, Gainesville is the place to make your mark. Hashtags #JDP #ProteinBuyer #MeatBuyer #BeefBuyer #PorkBuyer #FreshCommodities #FoodserviceDistribution #PurchasingJobs #GainesvilleGA #SupplyChainCareers #NowHiring