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Assistant Buyer Training Program Jobs in Chicago, IL

Follett Corporation

Buyer Assistant

Westchester, IL

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Executes purchase orders for test programs and seasonal programs. * Responds to inquiries from the field operations team regarding product assortments for the existing and new retail locations.

Follett

Buyer Assistant

Westchester, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Executes purchase orders for test programs and seasonal programs. * Responds to inquiries from the field operations team regarding product assortments for the existing and new retail locations.

Jimmy John's

Manager in Training Program

New Lenox, IL · On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

Promotion to Assistant Manager after Training Program: After successful completion of the training program, you will have the opportunity for promotion to Assistant Manager. Assistant Managers help ...

Jimmy John's

Manager in Training Program

Alsip, IL

$35K - $45K/yr

Promotion to Assistant Manager after Training Program: After successful completion of the training program, you will have the opportunity for promotion to Assistant Manager. Assistant Managers help ...

Jimmy John's

Manager in Training Program

Manteno, IL · On-site

$35K - $45K/yr

Promotion to Assistant Manager after Training Program: After successful completion of the training program, you will have the opportunity for promotion to Assistant Manager. Assistant Managers help ...

Solve IT Strategies, Inc.

Buyer - 2316

Chicago, IL · On-site

... training programs, readings, conferences, departmental training programs or some combination of these. 9. Buyer will follow the I CARE values of Rush University System for Health: Innovation ...

Eckerd Connects

Buyer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$45K - $48K/yr

The Buyer reports to the Finance and Administration (F & A) Manager/Director and is a salaried ... About Our Program Job Corps is the largest nationwide residential career training program in the ...

GENEVA PARK DISTRICT

PFP Program Instructor

Geneva, IL

$15 - $17/hr

The Part-time Peck Farm Park Program Assistant reports to the Manager of Peck Farm Park Program ... and training which provides the following required knowledge and skills; modern office support ...

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Assistant Buyer Training Program information

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How much do assistant buyer training program jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant buyer training program in Chicago, IL is $20.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $25.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant buyer training program?

An Assistant Buyer Training Program is an entry-level program designed to prepare individuals for a career in retail buying. Participants learn the fundamentals of merchandising, product selection, vendor relations, inventory management, and sales analysis. The program typically combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience, allowing trainees to work alongside experienced buyers. Graduates of the program are usually promoted to assistant buyer roles, where they help select and purchase merchandise for retail stores.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an assistant buyer training program?

To thrive in an Assistant Buyer Training Program, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant degree such as business, marketing, or fashion merchandising. Familiarity with inventory management systems, Excel, and retail analytics software is often required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills help you build vendor relationships and manage multiple priorities. These abilities are essential for making informed purchasing decisions and contributing to the company's profitability and inventory efficiency.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to handle during the assistant buyer training program?

During an Assistant Buyer Training Program, you'll typically be involved in a mix of analytical and administrative tasks. This includes assisting with merchandise selection, analyzing sales trends, tracking inventory levels, and helping prepare purchase orders. You'll also collaborate closely with buyers, vendors, and cross-functional teams such as merchandising and planning. These experiences provide valuable exposure to the full buying process and help build the skills needed for advancement within the merchandising department.

What is the difference between Assistant Buyer Training Program vs Assistant Buyer?

AspectAssistant Buyer Training ProgramAssistant Buyer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in business, retail, or related fieldSame as training program, often requires relevant education or experience
Work EnvironmentTraining-focused, often in retail or merchandising companiesOperational, involved in purchasing and inventory management
Employer UsageUsed by companies to develop future assistant buyersEntry-level or early-career role in buying departments
Search IntentLearning about training programs for aspiring assistant buyersSeeking entry-level assistant buyer roles

The Assistant Buyer Training Program is designed to prepare individuals for a career as an Assistant Buyer by providing structured training and education. An Assistant Buyer is an entry-level role responsible for supporting purchasing activities. The training program focuses on skill development, while the assistant buyer role involves hands-on purchasing tasks within retail or merchandising companies.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Buyer Training Program jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Assistant Buyer Training Program jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Buyer Training Program jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Buyer Training Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Assistant Buyer Training Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Buyer Training Program job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,621 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Buyer Assistant

Follett Corporation

Westchester, IL

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Follett rating

4.8

Company rating: 4.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

650th of 737 rated retailers

Job description

Responsibilities
Category Management Support:
  • Prepares weekly sales reports for distribution to GM and Operations management teams
  • Analyzes sales using reporting tools (MMS, RetailIDEAS) as needed for assortment reviews, vendor reviews, internal/external presentations, test programs, and additional reporting as necessary to support sales and merchandise strategy.
  • Works closely with Merchandise Control team to maintain SKU and pricing information.
  • Communicates vendor/product information to the Planning and Allocation team including assortment plans, and lead times.
  • Assists in the assortment execution online including gathering images and proofreading copy.
  • Executes purchase orders for test programs and seasonal programs.
  • Responds to inquiries from the field operations team regarding product assortments for the existing and new retail locations.

Vendor Relationship Management:
  • Corresponds with prospective vendors on an ongoing basis and communicates status in the review process.
  • Communicates with vendors continually regarding the product, pricing, minimums, terms, shipping, labor code compliance, digital imagery, and other vendor-related concerns.
  • Updates and distributes assortment plans, term sheets, and correspondence letters to vendors
  • Proofing: Verifies that pricing and vendor information is accurate in the system. Proofreads correspondence letters.
  • Sample Management: Maintains and organizes vendor samples of approved assortment.

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field.
  • Educational background in business, marketing, or retail merchandise preferred.
  • Work experience in a retail environment is required.
  • Intermediate to advanced computer proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
  • Must possess superior oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong analytical skills, including an understanding of retail math.
  • Ability to work cross-functionally and build relationships with other departments.

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