Category Analyst/Inspector

About the position

The Produce Inspector at Topco Associates is responsible for conducting thorough inspections of produce products to ensure quality and value for member owners, regional retailers, and wholesalers. This role involves working closely with the Produce team to enhance procurement processes and provide real-time communication regarding product quality and potential special buys. The inspector must maintain knowledge of USDA guidelines and provide training to new inspectors, while also ensuring fair treatment of suppliers and representing Topco professionally.

Responsibilities

• Conducts timely, thorough, and objective product inspections to ensure that buyers are kept abreast of product quality and condition.
• Determines shelf life potential and best value of produce products.
• Initiates calls to member buyers or quality control personnel to provide inspection reports of selected products in coordination with Topco Category Managers.
• Maintains current knowledge of assigned produce categories to recognize and formulate on-the-spot or special deals that provide attractive value for the membership.
• Provides crop forecast information, potential market conditions, weather impacts, and general assessments of anticipated quality and condition.
• Ensures fair and equitable treatment of all suppliers as a field inspector.
• Represents and promotes Topco and its programs in a professional manner.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; 4-year college degree preferred.
• Produce inspection/QA experience required.
• Thorough knowledge of fresh produce buying and marketing experience with a broker, supplier, or buying organization, or previous experience in wholesale/retail produce areas.

Nice-to-haves

• Some sales, produce retail, or grower associated experience desirable.