Used Book Coordinator

The Used Book Coordinator plays a central role in expanding Powell's used book inventory by evaluating large-buy opportunities, negotiating purchases, and managing the logistics of bringing collections into the company. A significant part of the role is also processing and preparing those purchases for distribution, making this a physically active, varied position that combines buying expertise, logistics and leadership. It's an opportunity to work independently, mentor others and have a direct impact on the breadth and quality of used books available to our customers. This position will travel off-site both locally and nationally to secure purchases.

Powell's Books is known worldwide as a premier independent bookstore and an icon in the Portland community. We're committed to fostering a culture and environment of inclusion, empowerment, and respect - a place where everyone can show up fully as themselves and do their best work every day.

Powell's offers an extensive benefits package including:

Generous healthcare plan (medical, vision, and dental)

401(k) savings plan

Education benefit

Childcare subsidy

Substantial employee discount that is also available to your significant other, children, parents, and siblings

Book borrowing privileges

Pay: $19.50 per hour, or more, depending on experience.

Schedule: The regular schedule will be 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri.

Closing Date: Sunday, October 18th, 2026

Additional Information: Please include a cover letter with a brief description of relevant skills and experience and the reason why you're interested in the position.

Position Title: Used Book Coordinator

Location: Industrial

Group: E

Date: 10/2026

Position Summary:

Individuals in this position have successfully completed the equivalent of Level II used book buying and have an in-depth understanding of used book buying processes, strategies, and logistics. The UBC will devote much of their time to soliciting, arranging, executing, and processing large book purchases for the company and has a demonstrated commitment to corporate and location-specific business goals. The UBC demonstrates a high degree of professional initiative, autonomy, and responsibility and is expected to take on a leadership role. The UBC is an expert and mentor and will train staff on aspects of large buy procurement and processing. When not working on UBC activities, the coordinator fulfills functions similar to a Used Book Buyer Level III. Reports to the Director of Inventory.

Essential Functions:

• Arranges and executes purchases of large volume, quality used books from sources nationwide. Buys from inventories of new and used bookstores and private collections.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for seller communications related to large collections and out-of-market seller inquiries.
• Travels off-site to secure purchases, including coordinating and/or participating in the packing and loading of books for transport.
• Assesses quantity, quality, freight, handling costs and approximate sell-through of large collections.
• Analyzes and manages used book cost versus sales while maintaining and improving profit margins.
• Demonstrates and develops an eye for new opportunities. Possesses a willingness to take informed risks. Takes initiative to propose new strategies in used book inventory procurement.
• Effectively and professionally represents the company in negotiating large purchases.
• Develops and maintains dealer networks, contacts with out-of-state book scouts and other relationships that facilitate the acquisition of high-quality used books from across the country. Works with Quantity Buyer to identify new purchasing opportunities.
• Manages large buy logistics. This may include hiring and directing work of on-site temps, truck and equipment rental, packing supply purchases and move logistics.
• Acts as a resource to the corporation for the shipping and handling of books.
• Organizes and executes house buys; trains, directs and supports employees on how to conduct house buys.
• Efficiently performs large buy triage and pre-sorting process prior to data entry.
• Understands and supports company used book distribution goals and processes and plays a leadership role in implementing new procedures to support those initiatives.
• Answers customer questions regarding used book buying policy, screens calls and assists customers in determining how they can best be served by the company''''s used book services.
• May assist at the buying table at store locations as needed.
• Understands and consistently upholds Powell's internal and external customer service standards.
• Demonstrates effective communication skills. Fosters a team and professional work environment.
• Advocates for continuous process improvement.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements / Qualifications:

• Demonstrated competence in a Level II Used Book Buyer or equivalent book industry experience.
• A valid Oregon or Washington driver's license and a driving record that meets Powell's safety requirements.
• Experience operating pallet jack, forklift and hand trucks desired
• Knowledge of used book market and of used book buying and selling practices.
• Experience negotiating bids and freight terms preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent computer, data entry and spreadsheet skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Extensive knowledge of stores' stock.
• Ability and interest in training others.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities.
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and priorities.
• Willingness to travel.
• Love of books and reading.
• Physical Requirements - Group E.