Assistant Produce Manager

Position Summary

The Assistant Produce Manager supports the Produce Manager in overseeing daily produce department operations to ensure the highest standards of freshness, quality, food safety, customer service, and associate performance. This role assists with production, merchandising, inventory control, and compliance while helping develop associates and achieve department and store performance goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Support daily produce department operations including stocking, rotation, culling, and display maintenance
• Ensure all produce meets company quality, freshness, and presentation standards
• Assist with ordering, receiving, inventory management, and shrink control
• Enforce proper handling, storage, and rotation of all produce items using FIFO practices
• Support execution of planograms, promotional displays, seasonal sets, and merchandising standards
• Monitor sales, labor, and department performance and assist with action plans as needed
• Maintain cleanliness, sanitation, and organization of all produce areas
• Address customer questions, product inquiries, and quality concerns promptly and professionally
• Assume department leadership responsibilities in the Produce Manager’s absence
  
  

Associate Leadership & Development

• Assist in supervising, training, and coaching produce associates
• Reinforce expectations for food safety, productivity, quality, and customer service
• Lead by example to promote teamwork, accountability, and a positive work environment
• Support onboarding and development of new associates
  
  

Operational & Compliance Focus

• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, sanitation standards, and company policies
• Complete required temperature checks, rotation logs, and department documentation accurately
• Ensure proper use and maintenance of equipment, tools, and backroom areas
• Support shrink prevention through proper handling and merchandising execution
  
  

Qualifications

• Previous produce, fresh food, or retail experience preferred
• Prior leadership or supervisory experience preferred
• Knowledge of produce handling, food safety standards, and inventory practices
• Strong communication, organization, and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to lead effectively in a fast‑paced fresh foods environment
  
  

Physical & Scheduling Requirements

• Ability to lift and handle product within company weight guidelines
• Ability to stand, bend, reach, and work in refrigerated areas for extended periods
• Flexible availability including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays