Assistant Produce Manager

The Assistant Produce Manager supports the Produce Manager in overseeing all aspects of the Produce Department, including sales growth, merchandising execution, inventory management, product quality, food safety, labor utilization, and associate development. This position helps ensure the department delivers fresh, high-quality products while providing exceptional customer service and achieving operational and financial goals.

• Assist in managing the daily operations of the Produce Department.


• Ensure produce displays are attractive, fully stocked, and maintained according to company standards.


• Monitor product freshness, rotation, culling, and quality throughout the day.


• Support ordering, receiving, inventory control, and replenishment activities.


• Maintain department cleanliness, organization, and overall presentation.


• Execute promotional displays, seasonal merchandising plans, and sales initiatives.

• Provide exceptional customer service and assist customers with product selection and inquiries.


• Promote produce items, seasonal offerings, and value-added products.


• Resolve customer concerns professionally and promptly.


• Foster a customer-focused culture among department associates.


• Ensure customers receive a fresh, well-stocked, and inviting shopping experience.

• Assist in recruiting, training, coaching, and developing department associates.


• Provide daily direction, work assignments, and performance feedback.


• Help establish and maintain productivity and service expectations.


• Promote teamwork, accountability, and a positive workplace culture.


• Lead by example through professionalism, strong work ethic, and customer focus.

• Ensure all produce meets company freshness and quality standards.


• Monitor proper handling, storage, rotation, and display of products.


• Maintain compliance with food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety requirements.


• Support department readiness for audits, inspections, and food safety evaluations.


• Ensure adherence to all company policies and operational procedures.

• Assist with inventory management to maximize sales and minimize shrink.


• Monitor inventory levels and ordering accuracy.


• Verify pricing, signage, displays, and promotional materials for accuracy.


• Support shrink reduction initiatives through proper rotation, handling, and merchandising practices.


• Identify opportunities to improve sales through effective merchandising strategies.

• Assist in achieving department sales, labor, gross margin, and shrink goals.


• Monitor operational results and identify areas for improvement.


• Support labor planning and productivity initiatives.


• Assist with managing expenses and controlling product losses.


• Review department performance metrics and help implement action plans.

• Previous produce, grocery retail, or fresh foods experience preferred.


• Prior supervisory, lead, or management experience preferred.


• Knowledge of produce handling, merchandising, and inventory management preferred.

• Strong customer service and communication skills.


• Ability to lead and motivate a diverse team.


• Knowledge of produce quality standards and merchandising techniques.


• Strong organizational and time management skills.


• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.


• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities.


• Basic math and computer skills.

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.


• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation.


• Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, kneeling, and stocking activities.


• Ability to work in refrigerated environments and varying temperatures.


• Ability to safely operate carts, pallet jacks, and other department equipment.

• Fast-paced retail grocery environment.


• Regular exposure to refrigerated storage and display areas.


• Frequent interaction with customers and associates.


• Flexible schedule required, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

• Maintains exceptional produce quality and freshness standards.


• Delivers outstanding customer service and department conditions.


• Supports achievement of sales, shrink, labor, and profitability goals.


• Develops a knowledgeable, engaged, and productive team.


• Demonstrates leadership, accountability, and operational excellence.