What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Purchasing Manager position at Lukas Nursery & Butterfly Encounter?
Description
Our Assistant Purchasing Manager supports the daily operations of the purchasing department and plays a key role in ensuring that Lukas Nursery remains well stocked with high-quality plants, garden products, and retail merchandise. This position works closely with vendors, receiving teams, department heads, and the Purchasing Manager to help forecast needs, place orders, track shipments, and ensure inventory arrives on time and in good condition.
This full-time Exempt position includes weekday hours. It requires strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and a proactive mindset. Familiarity with plants and gardening products is highly preferred. This is a great role for someone who enjoys working behind the scenes to keep things running efficiently. The Assistant Purchasing Manager will contribute directly to the customer experience by helping to maintain a well-stocked and visually appealing nursery.
Requirements
Our Assistant Purchasing Manager supports the daily operations of the purchasing department and plays a key role in ensuring that Lukas Nursery remains well stocked with high-quality plants, garden products, and retail merchandise. This position works closely with vendors, receiving teams, department heads, and the Purchasing Manager to help forecast needs, place orders, track shipments, and ensure inventory arrives on time and in good condition.
This full-time Exempt position includes weekday hours. It requires strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and a proactive mindset. Familiarity with plants and gardening products is highly preferred. This is a great role for someone who enjoys working behind the scenes to keep things running efficiently. The Assistant Purchasing Manager will contribute directly to the customer experience by helping to maintain a well-stocked and visually appealing nursery.
Requirements
- Assist the Purchasing Manager in placing and tracking purchase orders for plants, hard goods, and retail merchandise
- Communicate with vendors to confirm availability, pricing, and delivery schedules
- Assist with inventory cycle counts throughout the year to ensure stock accuracy and availability
- Help monitor stock levels and product turnover to identify reordering needs
- Inspect and report issues with incoming shipments, including shortages or quality concerns
- Assist in maintaining accurate records of purchases, vendor information, and product codes
- Prepare and review reports on purchasing trends, seasonal needs, and departmental requests
- Work with department heads to forecast needs and plan inventory based on promotions or seasonal changes
- Print Product labels and signage as needed for organization and customer clarity
- Support the Purchasing Manager in maintaining vendor relationships and exploring new sourcing opportunities
- Receive incoming Purchase Orders, verify contents, and communicate any discrepancies
- 2 years of purchasing, procurement, or inventory experience (retail or horticulture industry preferred)
- Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational and time management skills
- Clear written and verbal communication skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and inventory tracking systems
- Ability to work collaboratively across multiple departments
- Experience with plant and nursery inventory is a strong plus
- Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. occasionally and work both indoors and outdoors as needed
- Positive, team-oriented attitude with a problem-solving mindset
- Experience with Epicor ERP System preferred