Manager - Produce

Position: Produce Department Manager 

The Produce Department Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the produce department, ensuring the highest standards in product quality, freshness, food safety, merchandising, and customer service. This leader will manage inventory, ordering, displays, and a team of produce clerks to ensure an exceptional shopping experience for Joseph's Classic Market customers.

Key Responsibilities:

Department Operations

• Oversee the daily operations of the produce department, including prep, display, and storage
• Implement and maintain opening, mid-day, and closing procedures
• Ensure all displays are full, clean, rotated, and well-merchandised
• Lead seasonal reset planning and execution
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of coolers, prep area, and sales floor

Product Quality & Freshness

• Inspect incoming deliveries for quality, freshness, and proper temperature
• Rotate stock using FIFO and track spoilage
• Remove aging or damaged produce to maintain visual appeal and reduce shrink
• Ensure organic and conventional products are properly separated and labeled

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Enforce food safety procedures and safe produce handling standards
• Maintain proper storage temperatures and accurate cooler logs
• Ensure proper labeling and signage, including allergens and organic certifications
• Comply with all health and safety regulations and maintain audit readiness

Merchandising & Promotions

• Execute company and seasonal merchandising plans, weekly ads, and promotional displays
• Create impactful displays to highlight local, organic, and specialty items
• Coordinate with Marketing or Store Manager on demos and sales events
• Maintain all department signage (pricing, PLU codes, organic certification, etc.)

Inventory Management

• Order produce from approved vendors to maintain optimal stock levels
• Monitor shrink and implement controls to reduce loss
• Track department inventory, write-offs, and waste logs
• Receive deliveries, verify accuracy, and properly stock product

Customer Service

• Lead by example in providing knowledgeable, friendly, and proactive service
• Train staff to assist guests with questions about product selection, ripeness, and prep
• Handle customer concerns and special requests professionally
• Maintain a welcoming, helpful department experience

Team Leadership

• Hire, train, and coach produce clerks and associates
• Develop work schedules based on sales trends and labor budget
• Conduct performance reviews and ongoing training sessions
• Foster a safe, clean, team-oriented culture
• Delegate tasks effectively to maximize productivity

Reporting & Communication

• Submit weekly department metrics (sales, labor, shrink) to Store Manager
• Communicate vendor issues, customer feedback, and department needs
• Participate in leadership meetings and seasonal planning

Qualifications:

• 2-3 years of produce retail experience, with at least 1 year in a supervisory role
• Strong knowledge of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and organic produce
• Familiarity with food safety and produce handling regulations
• Excellent customer service and merchandising skills
• Strong leadership and communication abilities
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs and work in cold environments for extended periods
• Availability to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays

Working Conditions:

• Cold storage, wet floors, outdoor produce deliveries
• Standing, walking, and lifting throughout shift
• Exposure to fresh fruits, vegetables, allergens, and cleaning chemicals

Why Join Joseph's Classic Market?

Joseph's Classic Market is proud to offer the highest quality produce with unmatched freshness and presentation. As Produce Department Manager, you'll play a vital role in upholding our standards of excellence, creating vibrant displays, and supporting a passionate team that puts guests first every day.

Benefits Include:

• Positive Work Environment
• Competitive Pay
• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Plan
• Paid Time Off & Personal Days
• 20% Employee Discount
• Bonus Programs for Management

Interview Process
At Joseph’s Classic Market, we utilize VidCruiter as part of our interview process. This platform allows candidates to complete video interviews at their convenience, giving our hiring team the opportunity to better understand your experience and qualifications early in the process.

Employment Eligibility
Joseph’s Classic Market participates in E-Verify to confirm work authorization for all new employees. As part of the hiring process, employment eligibility will be verified through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration.