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Assistant Buyer Training Program Jobs in Chicago, IL

Follett Corporation

Buyer Associate

Westchester, IL · On-site

... programs, and additional reporting as necessary to support sales and merchandise strategy ... Mentors and provides training to Assistant Buyer, including reporting tools (JDA MMS and ...

Follett

Buyer Associate

Westchester, IL · On-site

... programs, and additional reporting as necessary to support sales and merchandise strategy ... Mentors and provides training to Assistant Buyer, including reporting tools (JDA MMS and ...

Follett Corporation

Buyer Associate

Westchester, IL · On-site

... programs, and additional reporting as necessary to support sales and merchandise strategy ... Mentors and provides training to Assistant Buyer, including reporting tools (JDA MMS and ...

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

Orland Park, 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 · 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

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

Chicago, IL · On-site

... through training programs, readings, conferences, departmental training programs or some combination of these. 9. Buyer will follow the I CARE values. Innovation, Collaboration, Accountability ...

Solve IT Strategies, Inc.

Buyer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... through training programs, readings, conferences, departmental training programs or some combination of these. 9. Buyer will follow the I CARE values. Innovation, Collaboration, Accountability ...

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 ...

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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 Sep 7, 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 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,621 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Buyer Associate

Follett Corporation

Westchester, IL • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Follett rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

610th of 740 rated retailers

Job description

Position Overview
The Associate Buyer is responsible for assisting the Buyer with all functions related to product selection, analysis, execution, and communication to support the company merchandise strategy and goals. In addition, this position is responsible for in-depth analysis and management of key categories identified by senior leadership for each season.
Responsibilities
Category Management:
  • Performs in-depth analysis and management of key categories identified by senior leadership for each season, including direct contact and negotiation with vendors and follow-through on execution with Planners and stores.
  • Works closely with Merchandise Control team to maintain SKU and pricing information in MMS.
  • Prepares weekly sales reports for distribution to General Merchandise and Operations management teams.
  • Analyzes sales using reporting tools (JDA MMS and RetailIDEAS) as needed for seasonal assortment reviews, vendor reviews, internal/external presentations, test programs, and additional reporting as necessary to support sales and merchandise strategy.
  • Manages key sub-categories within the department.

Buyer Support:
  • Verifies that pricing and vendor information is accurate in MMS and proofreads correspondence letters.
  • Assists in the development and promotional materials and Promotions Moving Forward (PMF) write-ups.
  • Maintains and organizes vendor samples of approved assortment styles for the current season.

Planning and Allocation Team Support:
  • Acts as the point person for special requests from Planners.
  • Works closely with the Planning team on special seasonal buys.
  • Communicates vendor/product information to Planning and Allocation teams, including assortment plans, graphics, and lead times.

Vendor Relationship Management:
  • Continually communicates with vendors regarding the product, pricing, minimums, terms, graphics, shipping, labor code compliance, barcoding, digital imagery, and other vendor-related concerns.
  • Conducts presentation of sales reports in all vendor meetings with specific feedback on sales trends and best sellers.
  • Corresponds with prospective vendors on an ongoing basis and communicates status in the review process.
  • Updates and distributes assortment plans, term sheets, and correspondence letters to vendors.
  • Mentors and provides training to Assistant Buyer, including reporting tools (JDA MMS and RetailIDEAS), communication protocol, and other job functions.

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent; the preferred field of study is Business, Marketing, or Merchandising.
  • 1-2 years of experience as an Assistant Buyer or equivalent experience in a retail environment required.
  • Intermediate experience using JDA MMS and RetailIDEAS or similar retail reporting systems required.
  • Must be proficient in MS Office with intermediate Excel skills.
  • Must possess superior oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to engage in periodic travel to bookstore locations for store visits and to support home game athletic events.

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