Job Title: Assistant Buyer
Employer: Eastern Mountain Sports
Classification: Full-Time, exempt
Location: Meriden, CT
Company Overview:
We believe success comes down to people. Since 1967, Eastern Mountain Sports has been helping people of all ages and abilities to have more fun outside. As a trusted source of top-quality outdoor gear, apparel and advice, we operate over 20 locations in twelve northeastern states, working with top active brands such as Timberland, The North Face, Columbia, Carhartt, Marmot, ON, Sorel and many more!
At Eastern Mountain Sports, we take a lot of pride in hiring people who have a genuine passion for the outdoors and the desire to inspire happiness by connecting people to nature and each other. If you’ve got passion for the outdoors and a commitment to the environment, an obsession for properly outfitting our customers, and a high degree of personal integrity, EMS may be the place for you.
About the role:
As a part of the team, you will play a crucial role in shaping our buying decisions and ensuring our products resonate with market trends and customer preferences. You’ll delve into comprehensive market research, analyze business trends against projections, and scrutinize competition dynamics. Through meticulous review of sales, inventories, receipts, gross margin, and markdowns, you will lay the foundation for strategic purchasing choices.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Provides a foundation for buying decisions by researching market trends, product direction, and competition; analyzing business trends vs. plan; and reviewing reforecasts of sales, inventories, receipts, gross margin, and markdowns
- Maintains knowledge of product and industry trends through market trips, online services, industry journals and fashion magazines
- Manages key vendors by maintaining strong working relationships while effectively negotiating terms such as unit costs, delivery windows, and vendor-added services as well as by proactively negotiating for off-price merchandise
- Accurately coordinates, processes and tracks POs and delivery of goods to the stores and websites by maintaining accurate files and effective communication. Ensures appropriate ship windows are set and adhered to
- Manages selection, turn, and profitability of assortments by ensuring timely Warehouse processing of receipts and returns-to-vendors; generating timely price changes to liquidate dated, slow selling inventories and to support sales events
- Helps forecast adequate ongoing and sales-event inventory levels by analyzing individual store characteristics and nuances with regard to product mix
- Sets direction for advertising preparation process by ensuring accurate data entry into AdPrep and timely merchandise turn-ins for advertising photo shoots. Brings forward marketing suggestions to generate sales
- Facilitates effective coordination of tasks and information by maintaining accurate, timely, effective communication with all internal and external business partners. Acts as information funnel through interaction via phone calls, emails, and memos
Experience and Qualifications:
- Recent Graduate with evident academic achievement
- A thorough understanding of retail math
- Can relate to the needs and wants of the outdoor customer
- Ability to work with cross functional groups
- Proficient in using MS Office – particularly Excel
- An analytical mind set; enjoys digging in and producing recommendations
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; comfortable communicating with all levels
- Interest in retail buying
Values:
1. Personal Improvement & Wellbeing: We are committed to doing the work to become the best versions of ourselves physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually in order to explore the world, build community, and curate living in a healthy state of joy, love and inspiration.
2. Empowered Thinking: We agree to do the work to metabolize our irrational fears so we can make rational decisions to achieve the outcomes we are looking for. This means we will be bold and courageous in failing forward, and we accept risk within well-managed parameters. The faster we hypothesize, test, validate or iterate, the sooner we succeed. There shall be no fear of rejection for speaking up; good ideas can come from anywhere; everyone has a voice; negative behaviors must be surfaced.
3. Integrity & Fairness: We seek a meritocracy where equity, inclusion, belonging, authenticity, honesty and integrity are paramount.
4. Service: We seek to deliver vastly more value than we cost and to make the world a happier place everyday.
Company Benefits:
At EMS & Bob’s Stores, we offer an industry leading benefits package that includes a variety of benefits including paid time off, health insurance, dental insurance, tax deferred retirement plans, and access to experts in preventative care. We also offer fun perks such as access to online yoga classes through YogaWorks, Access Perks discount shopping, dining and travel network, and GoDigital University, our internal training program that is hosted by industry leaders in entertainment, music and more. We also offer Vendor Training opportunities that provide generous discounts through their online sites.
Additional Information:
EMS & Bob’s Stores are committed to creating an inclusive work environment that reflects the diversity of our community. We are an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race (or traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles), religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, reproductive health decision-making, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 and over), sexual orientation, veteran or military status.
Eastern Mountain Sports
Related jobs:
Job Description
A student film production is seeking passionate and collaborative crew members for an upcoming project filming in the Los Angeles area. This narrative-driven film follows a workaholic woman who becomes invisible during her daily commute, leading her to reflect on her life and identity. The production is looking for dedicated volunteers and creatives eager to gain experience and contribute to a meaningful cinematic project.
Job Responsibilities
- Collaborate with the production team in your assigned crew role
- Assist in executing various aspects of film production (pre-production, on-set, or post-production)
- Support a smooth and efficient filming process
- Contribute creatively while following direction from department leads
- Maintain professionalism and teamwork throughout production
Requirements
- Interest or experience in film production or related roles
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
- Passion for storytelling and independent/student filmmaking
- Availability for scheduled shoot days
- Willingness to contribute in a volunteer capacity
Positions Available
- Producer / Production Manager
- 1st AD / Co-Producer
- Production Coordinator
- Casting Director
- Art Director / Prop Master
- Cinematographer
- Costume Designer
- Key Grip / Gaffer
- Boom Operator
- Production Assistants
- Additional crew roles, including post-production, may be considered
Compensation
- Unpaid (volunteer)
- Film credit
- Meals provided
Job Description
The independent feature film Killing The Light is now hiring local Dallas-based crew members for a 20-day shoot. This moderate low-budget production offers a collaborative environment for professionals looking to gain hands-on experience and grow their skills while working on a compelling project. The production is seeking dedicated non-union Texas locals to join various departments.
Job Responsibilities
- Support production operations based on assigned crew role
- Collaborate with department heads and team members throughout production
- Maintain professionalism and efficiency on set
- Assist with setup, execution, and wrap of production tasks
- Follow production schedules and directions from leadership
Requirements
- Must be a Texas resident and local to the Dallas area
- Must have reliable transportation to self-report to set
- Non-union applicants only
- Prior production experience preferred (varies by role)
- Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills
- Ability to work a Monday–Friday schedule (with possible Saturday)
Roles
Line Producer
- Experienced Dallas-based line producer with strong budgeting and logistics skills
Production Manager / Coordinator
- Experience in production management or coordination; familiarity with payroll and scheduling
Production Assistants / Drivers
- Valid driver’s license required
- Ability to drive trucks (up to 16’) and assist on set
- Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs
Production Designer
- Experienced in overseeing art department, including set design, props, and dressing
Costume Designer
- Skilled in wardrobe management, rentals, and continuity
Casting Associate (Training Position)
- Organized individual interested in learning the casting process
- Includes scheduling, communication, and assisting with auditions
Volunteer Background Actors
- Open to individuals seeking on-set experience (meals and credit provided)
Compensation
- Crew rates: $225–$300 per 12-hour day
- Meals and production credit included
- Casting Associate: $1,000 flat stipend
- Volunteer background actors: meals and credit only
Job Description
Wynn Publications is seeking a skilled and energetic production team for an upcoming game show pilot filming in Raleigh, North Carolina. This high-energy, fast-paced project is looking for experienced crew members across multiple departments to help bring an interactive and engaging show to life. This is a great opportunity for film and TV professionals looking to work on an exciting new production.
Job Responsibilities
- Collaborate with the production team to execute a game show pilot
- Operate equipment and fulfill duties specific to your assigned role
- Maintain professionalism in a fast-paced production environment
- Follow direction from producers, directors, and department heads
- Ensure smooth setup, execution, and breakdown of production elements
Requirements
- Prior experience in film, television, or live production preferred
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
- Ability to work in a high-energy, fast-paced environment
- Must submit portfolio or past work
- Must provide availability and specify desired role
- Must be able to work in Raleigh, North Carolina
Roles
- Camera Operators
- Sound Technicians
- Lighting Crew
- Production Assistants
- Set Designers
- Directors / Assistant Directors
Compensation
- Paid opportunity (based on role and experience)
Job Description
An event production team is seeking a polished and professional Box Seat Concierge to assist at a classical concert in Brooklyn. This guest-facing role involves providing premium service to attendees, including champagne service and coat check assistance, ensuring a high-end experience for guests.
Job Responsibilities
- Provide concierge-level service to guests in box seating areas
- Assist with champagne service and coat check operations
- Maintain a professional, welcoming, and attentive demeanor
- Ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for event attendees
- Follow event guidelines and coordinate with the event team
Requirements
- Strong customer service and communication skills
- Professional appearance; must wear black-on-black attire
- Polished, friendly, and attentive personality
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, guest-facing environment
- Reliable and punctual for scheduled event shifts
Compensation
- $30 per hour
- Minimum 3-hour shift
- 1099 contractor position with direct deposit
Job Description
A USC student production is seeking dedicated crew members for an upcoming short film shooting on a professional sound stage. This collaborative project offers an opportunity to gain hands-on experience, work alongside fellow filmmakers, and contribute to a creative production environment.
Job Responsibilities
- Assist in various on-set production roles depending on position
- Collaborate with the director and production team to ensure smooth operations
- Support lighting, camera, art direction, and set preparation
- Maintain organization of equipment, props, and set elements
- Contribute to a positive, efficient, and professional set environment
Requirements
- Interest or experience in film production or related fields
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team setting
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Willingness to take direction and adapt on set
- Passion for filmmaking and storytelling
Roles Available
- Grips
- Gaffers
- Assistant Camera (ACs)
- Art Director
- Set Dresser
- Prop Master
- Production Assistants (PAs)
Compensation
- Unpaid
- Meals provided
- Copy and credit included
- Opportunity to network with USC School of Cinematic Arts filmmakers
Casting Wrangler for Film Production
Job Description
A Los Angeles production is seeking a casting wrangler to assist with talent coordination. This role is ideal for individuals with strong communication skills and experience managing talent on set.
Job Responsibilities
- Coordinate and manage talent on set
- Assist with casting logistics
- Communicate with production and talent
- Ensure smooth talent flow during filming
Requirements
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Experience working with talent preferred
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
- Based in Los Angeles
Compensation
- $200–$300 per day (approx. 4 hours)
- Valuable on-set coordination experience
Runner for Film Production Crew
Job Description
A Los Angeles production is seeking runners to assist with various on-set needs. This role is ideal for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in the entertainment industry.
Job Responsibilities
- Run errands across set
- Assist different departments
- Support setup and breakdown
- Maintain efficiency on set
Requirements
- Reliable and punctual
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to multitask
- Must be local to Los Angeles
Compensation
- $100–$200 per day (3 hours)
- Great entry-level opportunity
Production Assistant for Film Crew
Job Description
A Los Angeles production is hiring production assistants to support daily operations on set. This is a great entry-level opportunity for those looking to start a career in film.
Job Responsibilities
- Assist with general production tasks
- Support crew across departments
- Maintain organization on set
- Run errands as needed
Requirements
- Strong work ethic and reliability
- Ability to follow instructions
- Interest in film production
- Must be local to Los Angeles
Compensation
- $100–$200 per day (3 hours)
- Entry-level production opportunity
Props Specialist for Film Production
Job Description
A Los Angeles production is hiring a props specialist to support the art department. This role involves sourcing and managing props for various scenes.
Job Responsibilities
- Source and organize props
- Maintain prop inventory
- Collaborate with art department
- Ensure props match creative vision
Requirements
- Experience with props or set work
- Strong organization skills
- Ability to multitask
- Must be local to Los Angeles
Compensation
- $500–$800 per day
- On-set production experience
Set Designer for Film Production
Job Description
A production team in Los Angeles is seeking a creative set designer to build and style environments for an upcoming shoot. This role is ideal for those with strong visual design skills.
Job Responsibilities
- Design and execute set concepts
- Collaborate with art and creative teams
- Prepare and adjust sets as needed
- Ensure visual consistency
Requirements
- Experience in set design or art direction
- Creative and detail-oriented
- Ability to meet deadlines
- Must be local to Los Angeles
Compensation
- $500–$1,500 per day
- Opportunity to showcase creative work
Gaffer for Film Production
Job Description
A Los Angeles production is looking for a gaffer to support lighting needs on set. This role is ideal for professionals experienced in film lighting setups.
Job Responsibilities
- Set up and manage lighting equipment
- Work with the director of photography
- Maintain lighting consistency
- Follow safety protocols
Requirements
- Experience as a gaffer
- Strong knowledge of lighting systems
- Reliable and team-oriented
- Must be local to Los Angeles
Compensation
- $500–$1,000 per day
- Professional production experience
Assistant Wardrobe Stylist and Props Assistant
Job Description
A Los Angeles production is hiring an assistant wardrobe stylist and props assistant to support the creative team. This role is perfect for individuals with a passion for styling and set preparation.
Job Responsibilities
- Assist with wardrobe styling and prop organization
- Support wardrobe and art departments on set
- Maintain organization of costumes and props
- Follow direction from department leads
Requirements
- Experience in wardrobe or props preferred
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to work efficiently on set
- Must be local to Los Angeles
Compensation
- $300 per day (3 hours)
- Hands-on production experience