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Associate Merchandise Buyer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About the Job As an Associate Buyer , you are responsible for setting the merchandise strategy for ... Purchase and manage merchandise assortments to maximize sales, margin, and overall business ...

About the Job As an Associate Buyer , you are responsible for setting the merchandise strategy for ... Purchase and manage merchandise assortments to maximize sales, margin, and overall business ...

... merchandise buying, with demonstrated success in managing a product category. * Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to interpret data and drive actionable decisions.

... merchandise buying, with demonstrated success in managing a product category. * Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to interpret data and drive actionable decisions.

... merchandise buying, with demonstrated success in managing a product category. * Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to interpret data and drive actionable decisions.

... product merchandise buying, with demonstrated success in managing a product category. Strong ... say 'Associate Relations' or send an e-mail to AssociateRelations@Express.com and let us know the ...

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Associate Merchandise Buyer information

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$2.6K

$3.8K

$5.5K

How much do associate merchandise buyer jobs pay per month?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average monthly pay for associate merchandise buyer in the United States is $3,750.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,833.33 and $4,666.67 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an Associate Merchandise Buyer typically collaborate with other departments within a retail organization?

As an Associate Merchandise Buyer, you will regularly partner with teams such as planning, marketing, and inventory management. Your role involves close communication with planners to monitor stock levels and sales trends, and with marketing to coordinate product launches and promotional strategies. Collaboration with vendors and the visual merchandising team is also common to ensure products are delivered on time and displayed effectively. This cross-functional teamwork is essential for achieving sales goals and maintaining a cohesive brand experience.

What is the highest paying merchandiser job?

The highest paying merchandiser roles are often senior or executive positions such as Merchandising Director or Vice President of Merchandising, which can earn six-figure salaries. These roles typically require extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and expertise in market analysis and inventory management.

What does an associate buyer do?

An associate merchandise buyer assists in selecting and purchasing products for retail stores or companies, analyzing sales data and market trends to ensure inventory meets customer demand. They often collaborate with suppliers, negotiate prices, and use merchandising software to manage stock levels and product placement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Merchandise Buyer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Merchandise Buyer, you need strong analytical skills, knowledge of retail math, and a bachelor's degree in business, merchandising, or a related field. Experience with inventory management systems, Excel, and retail analytics platforms like SAP or Oracle is typically required. Excellent negotiation, communication, and organizational skills help you build supplier relationships and manage multiple tasks. These abilities are crucial for making informed purchasing decisions that optimize inventory, drive sales, and meet customer demand.

What is the difference between Associate Merchandise Buyer vs Merchandise Planner?

AspectAssociate Merchandise BuyerMerchandise Planner
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or related fieldSimilar educational background, often with additional training in inventory management
Work EnvironmentRetail or wholesale companies, working closely with vendors and sales teamsRetail companies, focusing on sales forecasting and inventory optimization
Primary ResponsibilitiesAssisting in selecting products, negotiating with suppliers, and supporting buying decisionsPlanning sales, inventory levels, and product distribution to meet targets

While both roles support retail operations, the Associate Merchandise Buyer focuses on product selection and vendor relations, whereas the Merchandise Planner emphasizes sales forecasting and inventory management. Both positions require similar educational backgrounds and work in retail environments, but their core functions differ to support different aspects of merchandise management.

What does an Associate Merchandise Buyer do?

An Associate Merchandise Buyer assists in selecting and purchasing products for retail stores based on market trends, customer preferences, and inventory needs. They work closely with senior buyers to analyze sales data, negotiate with suppliers, and ensure that the right mix of merchandise is available. Additionally, they help with tracking orders, managing inventory levels, and supporting merchandising strategies to maximize sales and profitability.

How to be a buyer with no experience?

To become an associate merchandise buyer with no experience, focus on gaining knowledge of retail operations, inventory management, and vendor relations through entry-level roles or internships. Developing skills in data analysis, negotiation, and using buying tools like spreadsheets can also help build your qualifications for a buying position.

What does a merchandising buyer do?

A merchandising buyer is responsible for selecting and purchasing products to meet customer demand and maximize sales. They analyze market trends, negotiate with suppliers, and manage inventory levels, often using tools like spreadsheets and inventory management software. Their work involves collaboration with sales and marketing teams to ensure product assortments align with company goals.
More about Associate Merchandise Buyer jobs
What cities are hiring for Associate Merchandise Buyer jobs? Cities with the most Associate Merchandise Buyer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Merchandise Buyer jobs? The most popular types of Merchandise Buyer jobs are:
What states have the most Associate Merchandise Buyer jobs? States with the most job openings for Associate Merchandise Buyer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Associate Merchandise Buyer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,002 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

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Posted 10 days ago


Job description

About the Team

It's no surprise people are passionate about the health and happiness of their pet and our Merchandising (buying) team is no different. When it comes to the products and solutions in our stores, our incredible teams of merchandising associates have everything covered - from head to tail! From keeping up with the top trends to developing new, innovative solutions, our buyers help ensure every pet parent can find exactly what their pet needs at PetSmart. Join our team and show your love for pets by creating products as special as pets themselves!

About the Location

Collaborative Work Environment:At PetSmart, teamwork and connection are core to how we thrive. This role is based at our Phoenix Home Office, with an expectation of working a minimum of four days in the office each week. In a standard work week, associates may work up to one remote "flex day" (with leader approval). Our hybrid approach is designed to foster strong collaboration while also supporting flexibility and individual success.

About the Job

As an Associate Buyer, you are responsible for setting the merchandise strategy for an assigned category, including assortment selection, pricing, promotions, and line plan development. You will drive vendor selection and negotiate product purchases, terms, and ongoing relationships while staying informed on market and competitor trends.

  • Purchase and manage merchandise assortments to maximize sales, margin, and overall business performance.

  • Manage product assortment and specifications to identify and address opportunities that drive sales and margin growth.

  • Negotiate product costs, terms, and shipping/return agreements with vendors.

  • Act as a liaison between merchandising, distribution centers, and stores to track shipments and manage purchase orders.

  • Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure optimal pricing, product quality, and on-time deliveries.

  • Identify products for promotional and marketing strategies to achieve sales and margin goals.

  • Provide input on product lifecycle management, exit strategies, and inventory aging standards.

  • Assist in developing business plans that maximize sales and margin performance based on internal data, market trends, and competitive analysis.

  • Participate in recommending, setting, and approving pricing strategies, markdowns, and exit plans to meet margin objectives.

  • Collaborate with merchandising partners to manage product line performance, including sales, promotions, markdowns, inventory levels, product quality, and selling costs.

Education and/or Experience

Bachelor's degree in Merchandising Management, Supply Chain Management, Economics, Business, or a related field or equivalent combination of education and relevant merchandising or buying experience.

Additional Job Considerations
  • This role requires collaboration, teamwork, and face-to-face interaction with colleagues, leaders, and/or clients.
  • Being in the office ensures access to leaders, cross-functional partners, and resources necessary to make timely decisions and drive results.
  • On-site presence in accordance with our FlexSmart policy supports our culture of innovation, mentorship, and engagement, which is integral to our success in developing the best team.

* This is not intended to be an all-inclusive, exhaustive list of all essential job functions for this position. PetSmart retains the right to change or assign other required job duties to this position.

About the Culture

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed. 

We're more than a workplace, we're Team PetSmart. Together, we grow, collaborate, and challenge ourselves to be the best in all we do. Our culture is built on belonging and shared purpose, where every voice and experience matters. Guided by our values, we strive to do what's right, lead responsibly, and bring our passion for pets to life every day. Not sure if you meet 100% of the position requirements and whether you should apply? We'd still like to hear from you and encourage you to apply with us! You might be the right fit for this role or another opportunity across Team PetSmart.

Our home office offers outstanding amenities in a fun and rewarding workplace including:

  • Pet-friendly environment, bring your pets to work and enjoy the on-site dog park!
  • On-Site Events & Adoptions, enjoy community-building opportunities, including pet adoption days, seasonal celebrations, family events, art events, & holiday festivals
  • "Top Dog" gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists, personal trainers, and wellness spaces
  • "Sit & Stay" Cafe serving fresh breakfast and lunch options, snacks, & more
  • "Lil Paws" NAEYC-accredited onsite childcare facility providing high-quality early education
  • Paid Volunteer Opportunities to spend time doing good for causes close to heart
  • Print Center and Business Services, Dry Cleaning, Mother's Rooms, Sustainable Infrastructure & more

PetSmart provides an equal opportunity for all associates and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.

Employment Type: OTHER