• Apparel Buyer

    University of Colorado (Boulder, CO)


    Apparel Buyer

    **Requisition Number:** 66347

    **Location:** Boulder Colorado

    **Employment Type:** University Staff

    **Schedule:** Full Time

    **Posting Close Date:** 17-Aug-2025

    Date Posted:

    Job Summary

    The Book Store at CU Boulder welcomes applications for an Apparel Buyer! This position is responsible for buying-and supporting the merchandising and selling-of collegiate insignia and non-insignia apparel, which together represent approximately 50% of general merchandise (GM) sales and inventory.

     

    The Apparel Buyer works with a high degree of independence, regularly identifying solutions to practical problems without prior approval and taking on increased responsibility across all aspects of GM buying. This role supports the bookstore's expanding apparel assortment and requires strong decision-making, problem-solving, analysis, and judgment, using intermediate to advanced knowledge of general merchandise buying principles and best practices.

     

    The Apparel Buyer reports to the Senior Merchandise Manager, who reviews and approves all assortment plans. CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

     

    Who We Are

     

    The CU Book Store offers a convenient place for students to prepare for their academic endeavors. The store offers academic course materials, and school supplies for all students, faculty and staff. We also provide logoed gear for all patrons and visitors of the university. By offering innovative services and customer centric culture, the Store strives to provide a welcoming environment for all members of the campus community, and the Boulder Community at large.

     

    What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

    _Buying & Merchandising (Apparel):_

    + Responsible for buying collegiate insignia and non-insignia apparel. Independently determine order quantities within store guidelines using analysis of historical sales data and trends. Collaborate with vendors to evaluate new products, negotiate terms, and place orders. Work with the Marketing department to support promotional activities and product advertising. All buy plans will be submitted to and approved by the Senior Merchandise Manager.

    _Inventory Control & Sales Optimization:_

    + Maintain inventory control over assigned apparel categories to maximize sales, inventory turns, and GMROI, while minimizing markdowns and excess stock. Regularly review inventory performance and initiate markdowns or write-offs as needed. Analyze promotional effectiveness and adjust buying strategies accordingly.

    _Operational & Collaborative Support:_

    + Support purchasing functions through communication with store departments. Contribute to monthly and annual operational tasks including closing procedures and physical inventory. Maintain comprehensive product knowledge and purchasing plans for assigned categories.

    _Trade Show Attendance & Vendor Relations:_

    + Attend industry trade shows and conferences such as ICBA and SLATS to identify new product opportunities and meet directly with vendors. Represent the CU Bookstore professionally in all purchasing-related events.

    _Cross-Functional Participation:_

    + Collaborate with cross-functional teams on visual merchandising, floor planning, and customer feedback analysis. Assist with project-based initiatives related to merchandising and sales enhancements.

    What You Should Know

    + Work Schedule: Hybrid (Monday-Friday), with a minimum of 3 days per week on-site.

    + During the initial training period, the role will require 5 days per week on-site.

    + Occasional evenings and weekends required to support special events.

    + Travel: Occasional travel to trade shows and educational conferences.

    What We Can Offer

    + The salary range for this position is $58,000 - $62,000 per year.

     

    Benefits

     

    The University of Colorado offers excellent benefits (https://www.colorado.edu/jobs/benefits) , including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO Pass. The University of Colorado Boulder is one of the largest employers in Boulder County and offers an inspiring higher education environment. Learn more about the University of Colorado Boulder (https://www.colorado.edu/about) .

     

    Be Statements

     

    Be authentic. Be groundbreaking. Be Boulder.

    What We Require

    + Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

    + Three (3) years of progressively responsible retail buying experience.

    + Apparel buying experience required.

    + Additional years of relevant experience may substitute for a degree on a year-for-year basis.

    What You Will Need

    + Strong analytical and decision-making skills.

    + Ability to manage multiple vendors and categories efficiently.

    + Knowledge of retail math, pricing strategies, and GMROI optimization.

    + Strong communication and collaboration abilities.

     

    Special Instructions

    To apply, please submit the following materials:

    1. A current resume.

    2. A cover letter that specifically tells us how your background and experience align with the requirements, qualifications, and responsibilities of the position.

     

    We may request references at a later time.

     

    Please apply by August 17, 2025, for consideration.

     

    Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs. (http://jobs.colorado.edu/)

     

    In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

     

    To apply, visit https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Apparel-Buyer/66347 (https://apptrkr.com/6424432)

     

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    The University of Colorado does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, pregnancy, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, political affiliation, or political philosophy. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.