Buyer

Merchandiser (Buyer)

Location: San Luis Obispo, CA | Full-Time | On-Site

Competitive Base | Benefits | Growth-Oriented Culture

Be the Buyer Behind the Brand

At Ernest, our merchandisers (we call them merchandisers because, well, they do a lot more than just purchase) help shape the partnerships, pricing, and performance that drive our business forward. We’re looking for a Merchandiser to join our team in San Luis Obispo, CA where you’ll play a vital role in ensuring our customers receive quality solutions, competitive pricing, and exceptional service.

This is a full-time, on-site position for someone who’s skilled at building vendor relationships, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and managing product lines with a high degree of ownership and attention to detail. If you're organized, collaborative, and enjoy working cross-functionally to deliver results—this could be your next step.

What You’ll Do

• Source and evaluate new products based on quality, cost, and market trends
• Build and maintain strong, professional relationships with vendors to negotiate pricing, lead times, and product availability
• Monitor market conditions, price fluctuations, and product changes to ensure optimal buying decisions
• Manage inventory across Stock and Just-in-Time (JIT) categories, aligning with company targets and supply needs
• Establish target selling prices for made-to-order and non-stock merchandise in coordination with internal stakeholders
• Set and update part numbers, costs, and pricing using SAP (or ERP platform) with accuracy
• Ensure all reporting and part number data is accurate, current, and aligned with purchasing activity
• Maintain and update product costing after vendor verification
• Collaborate closely with internal teams including Sales, Operations, and Accounting
• Process merchandise control requests and documentation in a timely and organized manner
• Keep clear records of supplier quotes, correspondence, cost changes, and lead time updates
• Maintain open communication with suppliers regarding lead times and production status
• Provide insight and recommendations to improve departmental systems, procedures, and outcomes

What Sets You Apart

• Minimum of 2 years of purchasing or procurement experience, preferably in a capacity that focuses on cost savings and high volume PO’s.
• Experience negotiating with vendors and managing supplier relationships with professionalism and integrity
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on cost efficiency and continuous improvement
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and comfort working in an ERP system (SAP experience a plus)
• Excellent planning, time management, and organizational skills
• Clear communication skills and the ability to collaborate across departments
• A proactive mindset and desire to contribute to a team-focused, people-first environment

Why Join Ernest?

At Ernest, we believe your success powers our collective growth. We’ve spent over 79 years building a culture centered on appreciation, collaboration, and doing right by our people. You’ll join a team that values your ideas, supports your development, and gives you room to grow.

We offer:

• Competitive base salary
• Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)
• A culture that invests in its people and promotes long-term career growth
• Leadership that values your voice and recognizes your impact

Location: On-Site

We believe in the value of in-person connection, especially for a collaborative, cross-functional role like this.

Apply now and become part of a team where smart buying, strong partnerships, and meaningful work go hand in hand.

Ernest. Moving Packaging Forward. By Putting People First.