Assistant Produce Manager

Assistant Produce Manager supports the Produce Manager in overseeing daily department operations, ensuring fresh, high-quality products, outstanding customer service, food safety compliance, and efficient department performance. This position assists with inventory management, merchandising, associate development, and achieving sales and profitability goals while maintaining a clean, safe, and customer-focused produce department.

• Assist in managing daily produce department operations and workflow.
• Ensure fresh fruits, vegetables, and related products are stocked and merchandised according to company standards.
• Support department sales, labor, shrink, and profitability goals.
• Monitor department conditions to maintain cleanliness, organization, and readiness.
• Assist with implementing company programs, promotions, and operational initiatives.
• Help ensure consistent execution of production and replenishment plans.

• Maintain visually appealing displays that drive customer engagement and sales.
• Ensure proper rotation of products using freshness and quality standards.
• Verify accurate pricing, signage, and product information throughout the department.
• Monitor inventory levels to maintain strong in-stock conditions.
• Support seasonal, promotional, and holiday merchandising programs.
• Identify opportunities to improve sales through product quality, presentation, and assortment.

• Assist with ordering and inventory control to meet customer demand.
• Help manage shrink through effective forecasting, rotation, and inventory practices.
• Verify accuracy of deliveries and product receipts.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and rotation of produce products.
• Maintain organized coolers, prep areas, and storage rooms.
• Assist with inventory counts, audits, and recordkeeping activities.

• Provide leadership, coaching, and daily direction to produce associates.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, and training new employees.
• Support scheduling and workload distribution to maximize productivity.
• Monitor associate performance and provide ongoing feedback.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and a positive work environment.
• Serve as acting department leader in the absence of the Produce Manager.

• Deliver exceptional customer service and foster a customer-first culture.
• Assist customers with product selection, product knowledge, and special requests.
• Resolve customer concerns promptly and professionally.
• Ensure associates provide friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient service.
• Promote customer satisfaction through high-quality products and department conditions.

• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health regulations.
• Monitor proper product handling, storage, preparation, and temperature controls.
• Follow and enforce company policies and operational procedures.
• Conduct routine inspections to maintain cleanliness and safety standards.
• Report and correct food safety or workplace safety concerns immediately.

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous produce, grocery, food service, retail, or fresh department experience required.
• Prior supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
• Knowledge of produce merchandising, inventory control, freshness standards, and food safety practices preferred.
• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to push, pull, bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions.
• Ability to work in refrigerated environments and varying temperatures.
• Ability to safely operate department equipment and handling tools.

• Leadership
• Customer Focus
• Team Development
• Food Safety Awareness
• Inventory Management
• Merchandising Excellence
• Communication
• Problem Solving
• Organization
• Accountability

The Assistant Produce Manager plays a critical role in supporting department success by maintaining fresh, high-quality products, developing associates, ensuring operational excellence, and delivering an outstanding shopping experience for every customer.