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Associate Merchandise Planner Jobs in California

Aquent

Associate Merchandise Planner

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$40.80 - $45.33/hr

The Role As an Associate Merchandise Planner, you will manage brand planning for both pre-season and in-season windows, driving SKU in-stock metrics and optimization. Acting as the core financial ...

ALO

Associate Merchandise Planner

Beverly Hills, CA

$75K - $85K/yr

OVERVIEW We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Associate Merchandise Planner to support the planning team in developing and executing merchandise strategies that drive sales and ...

ALO

Associate Merchandise Planner

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

OVERVIEW We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Associate Merchandise Planner to support the planning team in developing and executing merchandise strategies that drive sales and ...

PacSun

Associate Merchandise Planner

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$71K/yr

Pre-season topside merchandise planning at a department/class level/style-color level, as well as ... Generous associate discount of 30 - 50% off merchandise online and in-stores * On-site Cafe * On ...

Worldmarket

Merchandise Planner

Alameda, CA · Hybrid

$110K - $130K/yr

Partner with merchandising in developing item/program/category strategies to support financial ... CA Pay Range is $110,000 to $130,000 annually #LI-LO1 #LI-Hybrid Full time and Part time associates ...

JCPenney

Assistant Manager Merchandise

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

... associates. * Own the planning and execution of special events within specialty businesses ... Associate merchandise discount across all Catalyst Brands All associates are eligible for an ...

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All JobsAssociate Merchandise Planner JobsAssociate Merchandise Planner Jobs in California

Associate Merchandise Planner information

See California salary details

$58.2K

$69.5K

$84.9K

How much do associate merchandise planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate merchandise planner in California is $69,521.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,700.00 and $73,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectAssociate Merchandise PlannerMerchandise Planner
ResponsibilitiesSupports merchandise planning, assists with inventory management, data analysisDevelops sales forecasts, manages inventory levels, creates merchandise plans
Required SkillsData analysis, basic forecasting, communication skillsAdvanced forecasting, strategic planning, analytical skills
ExperienceEntry-level or 1-2 years in retail or merchandising3+ years in merchandising or planning roles
Work EnvironmentRetail companies, fashion brands, department storesRetail chains, apparel companies, department stores

The main difference between an Associate Merchandise Planner and a Merchandise Planner lies in experience and scope. An Associate Merchandise Planner typically supports planning activities and handles more routine tasks, while a Merchandise Planner manages comprehensive forecasting and strategic inventory decisions. Both roles are essential in retail, with the Associate position serving as an entry point for those developing their planning careers.

What are Associate Merchandise Planners?

Associate Merchandise Planners are entry-level professionals in the retail industry responsible for assisting in the planning, forecasting, and allocation of products to maximize sales and minimize inventory costs. They analyze sales data, monitor inventory levels, and help develop strategies to ensure the right products are available at the right time and place. Working closely with buyers, merchandisers, and supply chain teams, Associate Merchandise Planners play a crucial role in supporting the merchandising process and achieving financial goals.

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

To thrive as an Associate Merchandise Planner, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a bachelor's degree in business, finance, or a related field. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, retail planning software (such as Oracle or JDA), and data analysis tools is typically required. Effective communication, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration skills help you work effectively with cross-functional teams. These competencies are crucial for making informed inventory decisions, optimizing sales, and supporting the overall merchandising strategy.

How does an Associate Merchandise Planner typically collaborate with buyers and inventory teams?

An Associate Merchandise Planner works closely with buyers to analyze sales trends, forecast demand, and develop assortment plans that align with business goals. They regularly communicate with inventory teams to monitor stock levels, identify potential shortages or overages, and coordinate replenishment strategies. This collaborative approach ensures that the right products are available at the right time, helping to maximize sales and minimize excess inventory. Effective teamwork and strong communication skills are essential in this role, as decisions often require input from multiple departments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Merchandise Planner jobs in California? The most popular types of Merchandise Planner jobs in California are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Associate Merchandise Planner jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Merchandise Planner job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in CA? For Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Associate Merchandise Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Merchandise Planner job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,521 per year, or $33.4 per hour.
Associate Merchandise Planner

Associate Merchandise Planner

Aquent

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$40.80 - $45.33/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Placement Type:
Temporary
Salary:
$40.80-45.33 Hourly
up to $45.33/hr
Start Date:
Jul 6, 2026
The Opportunity
At Aquent, we're known for connecting top-tier talent with the world's most innovative brands. Today, we are partnering exclusively with a rapidly growing, premier retail leader to help them find a strategic, data-driven Associate Merchandise Planner.
Our client believes that planning, forecasting, and allocating products are the crucial first steps in a product's journey to the consumer. Their energetic and innovative inventory management team continuously improves speed and accuracy to deliver on their brand promise in a fast-growing, ever-evolving marketplace. They know it's one thing to create amazing brand experiences-but the key is in successfully delivering them.
The Role
As an Associate Merchandise Planner, you will manage brand planning for both pre-season and in-season windows, driving SKU in-stock metrics and optimization. Acting as the core financial partner to the Merchant team, you will play a critical role in scaling and growing strategic brand partnerships.
Aquent is looking for an analytical, results-oriented professional who excels at turning complex data into thriving retail strategies.
Key Responsibilities
  • Open to Buy (OTB) Ownership (20%): Own accurate monthly, in-season OTB sales, gross margin %, receipt, and inventory adjustment projections. Reconcile OTB projections with Replenishment/Demand Planning system forecasts and present updates at cross-functional meetings.
  • Launch Strategy (20%): Develop tailored strategies for new brands, including projected sales, SKU-level inventory needs, and order flow setups for optimal launch windows.
  • Commercial Analytics (15%): Analyze and validate sales and inventory needs for key initiatives, marketing animations, and promotions. Conduct seasonal "hindsight" analysis on brand newness and campaign performance.
  • Assortment & Vendor Management (20%): Maintain consistent communication with vendors regarding performance and inventory health. Partner with Merchandising to validate product assortments, recommend items to discontinue/develop, and curate a highly productive catalog.
  • Pre-Season Planning (10%): Partner with Inventory Directors, Merchants, and Vendors to create comprehensive pre-season brand budget plans.
  • Inventory Optimization & Team Support (15%): Partner with Demand Planning on strategy, guide Merchandise Planning Assistants to prioritize crucial orders, and develop liquidation strategies for overstock or exiting collections.

What We're Looking For
  • Experience: 4+ years of professional experience in merchandise planning, inventory management, or retail demand planning.
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Finance, Business, or a related field (preferred).
  • Technical Savvy: Advanced proficiency in MS Office, with intermediate-to-expert skills in MS Excel.
  • Analytical Capabilities: A proven ability to interpret complex data and synthesize it into intelligent, actionable business decisions.
  • Core Soft Skills: Clear and concise communication (written, verbal, and presentation-ready), negotiation skills, and a keen attention to detail.
  • Adaptability: A flexible team player who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can handle multiple shifting priorities seamlessly.

Working Conditions
  • Primarily a traditional office/home environment with sedentary work.
  • Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to meet tight deadlines or resolve urgent performance bottlenecks.

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world's biggest brands.
Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits!
Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We're about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.
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