Associate Route Merchandiser
About the job
- A high school diploma or GED and a valid driver's license with a clean driving record are required; the candidate must meet all Department of Transportation requirements and pass a comprehensive background and driving history check.
- Prior experience in delivery, route driving, merchandising, or customer service is preferred.
- The candidate must have strong communication and customer service skills and be able to read, speak, and understand English.
- The candidate must be proficient with computers, iPads, GPS technology, and basic inventory systems; ability to operate box trucks is preferred.
- The candidate must be able to operate pallet jacks if applicable to the region.
- The candidate should be results-oriented and adaptable, balance business needs with customer requests, follow through consistently, and quickly apply new information.
- The candidate should be detail-oriented, professional, comfortable with structured routine tasks, and able to follow written and verbal instructions.
- The candidate should have strong visual merchandising abilities and maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming product presentation.
- The candidate must be capable of and proficient in training new Route Merchandisers, depending on regional needs.
- The candidate must be able to complete an 8–12 week on-the-job training program.
- The role requires climbing in and out of a vehicle; loading and unloading products; bending, stooping, pulling, pushing, and twisting; walking and standing for long periods; lifting up to 50 pounds; and operating a company truck.
- Service and merchandise vending machines and markets, deliver OCS orders, and help maintain equipment cleanliness while providing customer service.
- Use a company vehicle and company-owned tablet or phone to maintain accurate inventory records, rotate products, check expiration dates, and accurately account for route proceeds.
- Maintain accurate inventory levels across beverages, pre-packaged foods, fresh items, and snacks.
- Count, record, and order inventory according to established protocols, and complete full inventory counts as required.
- Restock shelves, coolers, coffee stations, and other displays, rotating products and following inventory-tracking procedures.
- Remove, document, and properly handle out-of-date or rejected merchandise.
- Load and unload products safely using proper lifting techniques and equipment.
- Deliver merchandise using a company vehicle, ensuring perishable items are handled and refrigerated appropriately during transit and stocking.
- Optimize route efficiency to reduce drive time and improve productivity.
- Ensure coolers and refrigeration units maintain proper temperatures and report deviations.
- Collect money from kiosks and vending machines under cash-handling and loss-prevention protocols, and record transactions accurately.
- Monitor and report unusual or concerning activity related to safety, security, or potential misconduct.
- Clean coffee machines, microwaves, coolers, shelves, racks, counters, floors, windows, and surrounding areas to maintain a clean and professional point of sale.
- Inspect product quality and appearance, report stale or defective items, and complete a final walk-through to ensure standards are met.
- Initiate service requests when equipment issues require technical support.
- Perform additional assignments and projects as needed.
About the company
Continental Services is a contract dining management company that provides fresh, handcrafted food for corporate workplaces, grab-and-go pantry-style vending, special events, and luxury yachts. The company runs on long-term contracts and event-based services, delivering tailored dining solutions through on-site staffing, menu design, catering operations, and specialized yacht provisioning. By managing client needs end-to-end, Continental ensures high-quality food and reliable service for businesses, events, and luxury vessels. What sets Continental apart is its collaborative culture, flexible hours, and a track record of adapting to crises (notably its COVID-19 response, where it fed frontline health workers), along with its focus on reimagining workplace dining. The company’s goal is to be a trusted partner for corporate dining, events, and luxury hospitality by delivering customized, consistent, and dependable food experiences while supporting clients’ operational needs.
Company Size
201-500
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
Troy, Michigan
Founded
1989
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Continental claims more than 3,000 clients, including Fortune 100 companies, as of April 2026.
- Updated July 2026 materials highlight award-winning teams and 24/7 service technicians.
- Its Midwest footprint spans Detroit, Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis, and other dense markets.
What critics are saying
- Private-equity ownership shifted to Morgan Street Holdings in November 2024, pressuring exit-driven execution.
- Michigan Central and similar premium accounts concentrate revenue in event-driven, discretionary spending.
- Workplace dining demand stays fragile if remote work reduces on-site headcount through 2026.
What makes Continental Services unique
- Detroit-founded since 1989, Continental serves workplaces, events, and yachts across the Midwest.
- It pairs contract dining with micro-markets, coffee, delivery, and custom culinary programs.
- Michigan Central named Continental exclusive catering partner on April 20, 2026.
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Benefits
- Meal Benefits