Assistant Buyer - Technology & Supplies

Position Title:
Assistant Buyer - Technology & Supplies

Job Group:
Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working in retail and providing excellent customer service
Previous experience in retail buying and/or inventory management
Familiarity with point-of-sale and inventory management systems
Supervisory or training experience
Experience with data management in excel or related software

Job Description:

The Iowa State University Book Store is a self-supporting auxiliary unit of Iowa State University located in Ames, IA.  As the official retail store serving Iowa State University, we will provide customers the educational products, services, and resources to support Iowa State University’s mission. Our technology store, TechCyte, is a leading authorized reseller and service provider for Apple and Dell products.

We are hiring an Assistant Buyer for technology and supplies retail product categories. This role centers on procurement, inventory management, and interacting with the ISU Community and vendors for effective sales and service. The ideal candidate should have strong problem-solving skills, thrive in both independent and collaborative work environments, and demonstrate excellent organizational abilities to handle multiple responsibilities concurrently.

Key Responsibilities:

Ordering and Inventory Management: Assist in the procurement and inventory control of retail technology and supply products, including but not limited to computers, devices, and accessories, as well as school and office supplies. Work within established open-to-buy plans and sales goals set by leadership, interpreting data to make informed purchasing decisions. Conduct and reconcile daily cycle count and bi-annual physical inventory processes.

Vendor Relations: Engage in vendor product quote process, custom orders, and negotiations to secure favorable terms, prices, and discounts and ensure the highest product quality and timely delivery.

Data Analysis and Reporting: Compile and maintain data for generating insightful reports on assigned product categories, including vendor and item performance, sales analysis, margin, turn, and GMROI metrics.

Customer Service and Collaboration: Regularly interact with customers in the retail environment. Work closely with other ISU departments to coordinate sales of tech and supplies. Regularly communicate with faculty, staff, and vendors regarding product deadlines, availability, and orders/requests for internal department sales. Develop positive working relationships, engaged teamwork, and effective communication skills.

Sales and Training: Conduct sales and product training sessions for staff, contributing to the overall team's success. Demonstrate the ability to make quick decisions during high-intensity sales periods, addressing customer issues, and adjusting merchandise as needed.

Marketing and Industry Awareness: Stay current with market trends, recommend industry changes, and actively contribute to marketing and merchandising initiatives of the business. Attend industry meetings, trade shows, and training sessions to stay updated on product trends, industry issues, and campus store networking.

The Iowa State University Book Store is open 7 days a week. All full-time positions require working a few weekends on a rotating schedule as Supervisor on Duty. Working hours may be adjusted at times for night and weekend requirements to support a healthy work-life balance. 

Level Guidelines
• Intermediate-level position with solid professional and/or technical skills working under general supervision to achieve goals
• Applies broad, working knowledge of the principles of the field to moderately complex, difficult, and varied problems and issues
• Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action and resolve problems
• Responds to a broad range of inquiries and requests
• May provide training and/or direction to lower-level staff
• May lead projects of moderate scope and complexity
• Provides guidance to students

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an on-going basis without sponsorship. 

Appointment Type:
Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period

Time Type:
Full time

Pay Grade:
PS807

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State University is committed to fostering a workplace of belonging, where diversity is celebrated and equity is a core value. Our Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
 

Original Posting Date:
February 21, 2024

Posting Close Date:
March 3, 2024

Job Requisition Number:
R14080