Buyer (Ag Focus)

The Buyer is a strong individual contributor who is proactive and relationship-driven, with full ownership of an assigned category for a multi-branch rental business supporting both storefronts and field/job site operations. This role is responsible for end-to-end sourcing of parts, consumables, and related materials used for retail counter sales, rental fleet maintenance, and on-site service work. Success in this position is defined by ensuring product availability at the shelf and in the field, optimizing total cost of ownership, and building strong partnerships with local suppliers and branch teams across California and other regions. This role will have an Ag focus.

What we do:

At Rain for Rent, we move water—every day. As the leading provider of temporary liquid handling solutions, we’re recognized for our systems engineering expertise, cost-effective problem solving, and the high value we deliver to organizations facing critical liquid management challenges. Our experienced teams, supported by skilled engineers, are continually redefining what customers expect from a liquid handling provider. We design innovative equipment and harness cutting-edge technology to meet the demands of the toughest environments. From water handling and irrigation to temporary liquid storage, our solutions consistently exceed customer expectations for quality and service. We are committed to completing every project safely, efficiently, on time—and done right the first time.

To learn more about Rain for Rent please check out this short 2 minute YouTube video here.

Rain for Rent employees take great pride in being part of a family-owned company with a rich and enduring legacy. For over 91 years, we’ve delivered consistent, high-quality products and services to our customers. With more than 70 locations across the U.S., Canada, and the UK, Rain for Rent remains committed to excellence. Honesty and integrity are at the core of everything we do. Our dedicated team strives to exceed expectations through exceptional service and unwavering quality.

Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Sourcing

• Oversee sourcing for parts, components, consumables, and service suppliers to support storefront, shop, and job site requirements. Collaborate with Strategic Sourcing Leads to execute sourcing strategies aligned business priorities.
• Conduct market analysis, competitive benchmarking, and supplier due diligence across assigned markets. (e.g., California’s & Idaho Markets, Central Valley, Salinas/Monterey, Imperial Valley, Central Coast).
• Manage direct costs associated with competitive bids i.e. issue (RFQ/RFP).
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and rebates; manage contracts, SLAs, and compliance.
• Implement VMI/consignment, e Catalogs, and preferred supplier programs to streamline availability and reduce working capital.
• Partner with OEMs, distributors, and regional independents to secure critical and seasonal parts with resilient lead times.

Branch & Field Support

• Act as the main procurement point of contact for branch, counter, service, and field teams within the assigned area of responsibility.
• Conduct regular branch visits to review stock levels, demand patterns, and service priorities; drive root cause actions on backorders and stockouts.
• Coordinate with Service Managers, Counter Managers, Territory Sales, and Fleet to align buys with seasonal peaks and project demands.
• Support new branch openings and product transitions.
• Track and reduce slow moving and excess stock; implement returns and credits where feasible.

Supplier Management

• Own supplier performance (OTIF, quality, responsiveness, warranty/returns); drive QBRs and continuous improvement.
• Consolidate tail spend where practical while maintaining local agility for urgent needs and service continuity.
• Enforce ethical sourcing and company purchasing policies.

Retail Store Inventory Management

• Work with local teams to create congruent product offering / store specific offering strategy with associated target inventory levels.

Execution & Data

• Convert category strategies into executable PO tactics; ensure accurate item masters, pricing, and contract updates in the ERP system.
• Resolve PO exceptions (ETA’s, partials, substitutions); communicate proactively with branches and field techs.
• Build dashboards/metrics in BI; present results and actions to the Director of Purchasing.
• Other duties as assigned in support of the operation.

Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those and employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

At RfR, in-person work at our offices and/or branch location is a top priority because it allows us to more effectively collaborate, connect, and builds a workplace culture that drives our continued success. This role requires onsite presence at a RfR office and/or branch location. Except for limited circumstances, remote and/or hybrid options are not offered at this time. The employee

What we offer:

At Rain for Rent, we take pride in taking care of our team. We offer a comprehensive benefits package and a supportive work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. Our offerings include:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Matching 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Competitive base salary
• Nine paid holidays and a generous paid time off (PTO) program
• Tuition reimbursement to support continued education
• Company-sponsored training and career development opportunities
• Pet insurance and many other valuable perks

We are proud to support those who have served our country. We are honored to share that Rain for Rent has earned the Military Friendly® Employer Gold (MFE) Gold Designation for 2026! This is our fourth consecutive year being recognized, and our second year achieving Gold-level distinction. We are committed to hiring and supporting veterans. Vets - Rain for Rent® When you join the Rain for Rent team, you're not just building a career—you’re building meaningful relationships, doing work that matters, and making a positive impact in your community. The choice is easy. Join the Rain for Rent team today.

**Rain for Rent does not accept 3rd party applicants**

Rain for Rent is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, veteran status, gender identity, and sexual orientation, and other statuses protected by law.

Estimated rate of pay $70,340 - $75,000 annually

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Experience

Preferred

• Experience with Ag parts (engine, hydraulic, filtration, drive, electrical, implements) and seasonal demand planning. Strong negotiations, RFx, contract, and rebate management experience Proficiency with ERP/P2P (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, D365, Infor) and advanced Excel; comfort with BI/reporting

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.