Wine Buyer Jobs
Wine Buyer jobs are open across retail chains, restaurant groups, wine distributors, and specialty import firms, at every level from assistant buyer to head of purchasing, with specializations in fine wine, domestic varietals, and on-premise portfolio management. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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Showing 5 of 6+ Wine Buyer jobs
A career at Whole Foods Market is more than just the work you do- it's about your personal growth and creating meaningful change. Our purpose is to nourish people and the planet. That means improving how people eat, funding grants for school gardens, providing access to fresh and healthy food to people living within food deserts, alleviating poverty in developing countries, and so much more. Working with us means you are making a difference within your community and beyond. We aren't just a grocery store: we're world-changers. And with your help, we will continue to set the standards of excellence and revolutionize the grocery industry.
Job Responsibilities
Purchases and replenishes Specialty items through proper buying procedures.
Ensures orders are timely and accurate to monitor inventory turns.
Understands why WFM products are different from conventional stores and explains differences to customers.
Achieves and exceeds assigned / established margin and sales targets.
Creates effective merchandising displays.
Requests and ensures proper signage and pricing.
Participates in national, regional and store promotional programs.
Samples department products to customers.
Oversees customer special order procedure.
Processes invoices and returns.
Maintains organized and safe back stock area.
Analyzes and controls product waste and spoilage.
Completes spoilage, sampling, temperature, and sweep worksheets as required.
Arrives to work station on time, appropriately groomed, dressed and ready to work; works all scheduled shifts and attends required trainings and meetings.
Provides excellent customer service, addresses needs of customers in a timely and effective manner and models suggestive selling techniques; answers phones and pages promptly and courteously.
Maximizes sales potential through effective and proper procedures for prepping, storing, rotating, stocking, and merchandising product.
Follows and complies, or ensures compliance, with established procedures, including Weights and Measures, health and sanitation, and safe work practices.
Maintains, or ensures maintenance of, a clean and sanitary working and shopping environment; maintains equipment in accordance with WFM cleanliness and safety standards.
Performs opening, mid, and closing duties as assigned; ensures accuracy of signs and pricing.
Immediately reports safety hazards and violations.
Performs other duties as assigned by store, regional, or national leadership. Performs other duties as assigned by store, regional, or national leadership.
Job Skills
Extensive specialty knowledge, including production, distribution, seasonal availability, advances and trends.
Familiarity and/or willingness to learn about products, nutritional information and other areas of study.
Working knowledge and application of all specialty merchandising expectations.
Demonstrates a desire to grow with the Specialty team.
Ability to educate team on product knowledge and convey enthusiasm.
Strong basic math skills.
Knowledge and ability to use computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and ordering systems.
Strong to excellent communication skills and willingness to work as part of a team.
Ability to deliver information in a clear and respectable manner to fellow Team Members, customers, and vendors.
Ability to meet customer service expectations and standards in all interactions with customers, vendors, and Team Members.
Ability to follow directions and procedures; effective time management and organization skills.
Passion for natural foods and the mission of Whole Foods Market.
Strong work ethic and ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a sense of urgency.
Understanding of and compliance with WFM quality goals
Experience
- 12+ months retail experience
Physical Requirements / Working Conditions
Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
In an 8-hour work day: standing/walking 6-8 hours.
Hand use: single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling.
Work requires the following motions: bending, twisting, squatting and reaching.
Exposure to FDA approved cleaning chemicals.
Exposure to temperatures: <32 degrees Fahrenheit (freezing), 32-40 degrees Fahrenheit (refrigerators), >90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ability to work in a wet and cold environment.
Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Ability to use tools and equipment, including box cutters, electric pallet jacks, and other heavy machinery.
Where applicable, TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures by Servers of Alcohol) course completion required and must be age 18 years of age or older to serve alcohol.
Note: The purpose of this document is to provide a general summary of essential responsibilities for the position and is not meant as an exhaustive list. This document does not reflect all job duties or requirements for every position. Requirements build as one progresses through the job levels, so any job duties required at a lower level may be required at the higher level in addition to the duties listed for that higher level. Duties, assignments, and other responsibilities may differ for similar positions based on business conditions, departmental or geographic location, and/or needs for the particular position. An individual must demonstrate successful performance in their current position before being considered for promotion. In addition, in order to promote into a higher-level position, a business need for the promotion must exist and the candidate must be considered the most qualified person for the new position. Completion of certain milestones such as obtaining an advanced degree or certification, time in current position, or developing skills to perform at the higher-level role do not guarantee a promotion.
The wage range for this position is $17.50-$30.20 Hourly, commensurate with experience. Whole Foods Market offers "Whole Benefits". Whole Benefits offers a wide range of benefits for Full and Part-Time Team Members, including eligibility for a store discount, paid time off, financial wellness, health & wellness support programs, and access to other Team Member perks. Eligibility for Whole Benefits is determined under the terms of the applicable Whole Benefits plan at a person’s date of hire and may vary based on work location, length of service, and job type (such as regular or seasonal). Click here for benefit details.At Whole Foods Market, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all Team Members and candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Whole Foods Market hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.
Whole Foods Market works with job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter to promote opportunities at our company. Please be aware that other career sites may not be accurate or up to date and may even be fraudulent. We encourage and recommend all candidates to apply via our site.
A career at Whole Foods Market is more than just the work you do- it's about your personal growth and creating meaningful change. Our purpose is to nourish people and the planet. That means improving how people eat, funding grants for school gardens, providing access to fresh and healthy food to people living within food deserts, alleviating poverty in developing countries, and so much more. Working with us means you are making a difference within your community and beyond. We aren't just a grocery store: we're world-changers. And with your help, we will continue to set the standards of excellence and revolutionize the grocery industry.
Job Responsibilities
Purchases and replenishes Specialty items through proper buying procedures.
Ensures orders are timely and accurate to monitor inventory turns.
Understands why WFM products are different from conventional stores and explains differences to customers.
Achieves and exceeds assigned / established margin and sales targets.
Creates effective merchandising displays.
Requests and ensures proper signage and pricing.
Participates in national, regional and store promotional programs.
Samples department products to customers.
Oversees customer special order procedure.
Processes invoices and returns.
Maintains organized and safe back stock area.
Analyzes and controls product waste and spoilage.
Completes spoilage, sampling, temperature, and sweep worksheets as required.
Arrives to work station on time, appropriately groomed, dressed and ready to work; works all scheduled shifts and attends required trainings and meetings.
Provides excellent customer service, addresses needs of customers in a timely and effective manner and models suggestive selling techniques; answers phones and pages promptly and courteously.
Maximizes sales potential through effective and proper procedures for prepping, storing, rotating, stocking, and merchandising product.
Follows and complies, or ensures compliance, with established procedures, including Weights and Measures, health and sanitation, and safe work practices.
Maintains, or ensures maintenance of, a clean and sanitary working and shopping environment; maintains equipment in accordance with WFM cleanliness and safety standards.
Performs opening, mid, and closing duties as assigned; ensures accuracy of signs and pricing.
Immediately reports safety hazards and violations.
Performs other duties as assigned by store, regional, or national leadership. Performs other duties as assigned by store, regional, or national leadership.
Job Skills
Extensive specialty knowledge, including production, distribution, seasonal availability, advances and trends.
Familiarity and/or willingness to learn about products, nutritional information and other areas of study.
Working knowledge and application of all specialty merchandising expectations.
Demonstrates a desire to grow with the Specialty team.
Ability to educate team on product knowledge and convey enthusiasm.
Strong basic math skills.
Knowledge and ability to use computer programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook and ordering systems.
Strong to excellent communication skills and willingness to work as part of a team.
Ability to deliver information in a clear and respectable manner to fellow Team Members, customers, and vendors.
Ability to meet customer service expectations and standards in all interactions with customers, vendors, and Team Members.
Ability to follow directions and procedures; effective time management and organization skills.
Passion for natural foods and the mission of Whole Foods Market.
Strong work ethic and ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a sense of urgency.
Understanding of and compliance with WFM quality goals
Experience
- 12+ months retail experience
Physical Requirements / Working Conditions
Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
In an 8-hour work day: standing/walking 6-8 hours.
Hand use: single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling.
Work requires the following motions: bending, twisting, squatting and reaching.
Exposure to FDA approved cleaning chemicals.
Exposure to temperatures: <32 degrees Fahrenheit (freezing), 32-40 degrees Fahrenheit (refrigerators), >90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Ability to work in a wet and cold environment.
Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Ability to use tools and equipment, including box cutters, electric pallet jacks, and other heavy machinery.
Where applicable, TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures by Servers of Alcohol) course completion required and must be age 18 years of age or older to serve alcohol.
Note: The purpose of this document is to provide a general summary of essential responsibilities for the position and is not meant as an exhaustive list. This document does not reflect all job duties or requirements for every position. Requirements build as one progresses through the job levels, so any job duties required at a lower level may be required at the higher level in addition to the duties listed for that higher level. Duties, assignments, and other responsibilities may differ for similar positions based on business conditions, departmental or geographic location, and/or needs for the particular position. An individual must demonstrate successful performance in their current position before being considered for promotion. In addition, in order to promote into a higher-level position, a business need for the promotion must exist and the candidate must be considered the most qualified person for the new position. Completion of certain milestones such as obtaining an advanced degree or certification, time in current position, or developing skills to perform at the higher-level role do not guarantee a promotion.
The wage range for this position is $17.50-$30.20 Hourly, commensurate with experience. Whole Foods Market offers "Whole Benefits". Whole Benefits offers a wide range of benefits for Full and Part-Time Team Members, including eligibility for a store discount, paid time off, financial wellness, health & wellness support programs, and access to other Team Member perks. Eligibility for Whole Benefits is determined under the terms of the applicable Whole Benefits plan at a person’s date of hire and may vary based on work location, length of service, and job type (such as regular or seasonal). Click here for benefit details.At Whole Foods Market, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all Team Members and candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Whole Foods Market hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.
Whole Foods Market works with job sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter to promote opportunities at our company. Please be aware that other career sites may not be accurate or up to date and may even be fraudulent. We encourage and recommend all candidates to apply via our site.
See All 6 Wine Buyer Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Wine Buyer JobsWine Buyer Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Food & Beverage
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in wine buyer jobs.
- WSET Level 3 or Court of Master Sommeliers certification preferred or required
- Three or more years of experience in wine purchasing, wholesale, or retail buying
- Proven ability to manage supplier relationships and negotiate pricing terms
- Strong knowledge of domestic and international wine regions, varietals, and producers
- Experience building and managing a balanced wine portfolio across price points
- Proficiency with inventory management systems and purchase order workflows
Tips for Your Wine Buyer Job Search
Tailor your resume to buying metrics
Hiring managers want to see how your selections performed, not just what you ordered. Quantify your contribution by referencing inventory turnover, margin improvement, or portfolio expansion you managed, keeping language concrete and specific to your category experience.
Highlight certifications that signal expertise
WSET Level 3 or higher and Court of Master Sommeliers credentials carry real weight in buyer screenings. List the level clearly and note any specializations, because a certification in spirits or sake can open doors that a general wine background won't.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists wine buyer openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target postings by channel type
On-premise buyers for restaurants and hotels face different expectations than off-premise retail or wholesale buyers. Filter your search by those channel distinctions so your application materials speak directly to what that employer actually manages day to day.
Prepare a tasting narrative for interviews
Most wine buyer interviews include a blind or guided tasting component. Practice articulating your reasoning out loud: grape, region, vintage, and commercial fit. Interviewers want to hear how you think, not just whether you identify the wine correctly.
Negotiate with supplier relationships in mind
When discussing compensation, factor in whether the role comes with travel to regions, trade tastings, or producer access. These shape your long-term development as a buyer and are legitimate points to raise alongside base pay when evaluating an offer.
Wine Buyer Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most wine buyers?
The most active employers for wine buyers right now are Whole Foods Market, Made in Oregon, and Formaggio Kitchen, and the most openings are in Texas, Oregon, and Florida, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Retail groups, regional distributors, and multi-unit restaurant companies tend to post the highest volume of buyer openings.
How do you become a wine buyer?
Start by building foundational wine knowledge through a structured certification program such as WSET or the Court of Master Sommeliers. Work in retail, wholesale, or food and beverage roles that give you direct exposure to purchasing decisions. Progress into an assistant buyer or inventory coordinator position, develop supplier relationships, and demonstrate that your selections perform commercially before moving into a full buyer role.
Can you get a wine buyer job with limited experience?
Yes, entry-level and assistant buyer roles exist specifically for candidates building their purchasing background. Focus on completing at least a mid-level wine certification, gaining floor or sales floor experience at a wine retailer or distributor, and showing you understand margin and inventory basics. Smaller independent retailers and regional distributors are more likely to hire and develop candidates who don't yet have dedicated buying experience.
What does the wine buyer interview process look like?
Most wine buyer interviews involve an initial phone or video screen with a hiring manager or HR contact, followed by one or two in-person rounds. At least one stage typically includes a tasting exercise where you assess and talk through a selection of wines. Final rounds often involve meeting a category director or general manager and may include a portfolio review or a case study on how you would approach a buying decision for their business.
Where can I find and apply to wine buyer jobs?
You can find and apply to wine buyer jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Search for roles that match your experience level and specialty, then apply directly to each listing that fits. Migrate Mate pulls together openings from retail, distribution, and hospitality employers in one place so you're not hunting across multiple sources.
See All 6 Wine Buyer Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Wine Buyer Jobs