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Associate Merchandise Planner Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Merchandise Planning Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Lead, mentor, and develop Planners and Associate Planners; elevate team analytical rigor and business acumen. Qualifications * 7-10+ years of progressive retail merchandise planning experience ...

Lead, mentor, and develop Planners and Associate Planners; elevate team analytical rigor and business acumen. Qualifications * 7-10+ years of progressive retail merchandise planning experience ...

Demand Planner

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$77K - $110K/yr

Partner with Merchandise Financial Planning and Inventory teams to evaluate forecasts and order ... associates to earn additional compensation pursuant to the Company's bonus plan. Exact pay will be ...

Demand Planner

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$77K - $110K/yr

Partner with Merchandise Financial Planning and Inventory teams to evaluate forecasts and order ... associates to earn additional compensation pursuant to the Company's bonus plan. Exact pay will be ...

Demand Planner

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$77.60 - $110/hr

Partner with Merchandise Financial Planning and Inventory teams to evaluate forecasts and order ... associates to earn additional compensation pursuant to the Company's bonus plan. Exact pay will be ...

Merchandise Manager

Chicago, IL

$51K - $63K/yr

As a Manager, Assortment Planning at Dollar Tree's corporate office, you'll provide guidance ... Our associates play an important role in this commitment by embracing change and showing up for ...

Associate Supply Planner Corporate Headquarters 12575 Uline Drive, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158 Stay ... Support new product launches by reviewing demand history and collaborating with Merchandising to ...

Associate Supply Planner Corporate Headquarters 12575 Uline Drive, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158 Stay ... Support new product launches by reviewing demand history and collaborating with Merchandising to ...

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We ... The Inventory Planner works closely with the merchandising, replenishment and supply chain teams to ...

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We ... The Inventory Planner works closely with the merchandising, replenishment and supply chain teams to ...

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We ... The Inventory Planner works closely with the merchandising, replenishment and supply chain teams to ...

Collaborate with Merchandise Planning and Demand Planning teams to incorporate forecasts ... associates to earn additional compensation pursuant to the Company's bonus plan. Exact pay will be ...

... associates and creating positive experiences for the communities we serve. In this role, you'll ... Plan and implement monthly Sales Planners Your Skills and Experience: * Prior retail and management ...

... associates and creating positive experiences for the communities we serve. In this role, you'll ... Plan and implement monthly Sales Planners Your Skills and Experience: * Prior retail and management ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Merchandise Planner information

See Illinois salary details

$57.2K

$68.3K

$83.3K

How much do associate merchandise planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate merchandise planner in Illinois is $68,261.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,500.00 and $72,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate merchandise planner?

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.

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 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.

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 the most commonly searched types of Merchandise Planner jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Merchandise Planner jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in Illinois?

For Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Associate Merchandise Planner jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Associate Merchandise Planner job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in IL?

For Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Associate Merchandise Planner job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,261 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Merchandising Planner - USABlueBook

HD Supply Canada, Inc

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$70.60 - $104.10/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

.Merchandising Planner - USA BlueBook page is loaded## Merchandising Planner - USA BlueBooklocations: Waukegan-IL-UStime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: R26002276**Job Summary**Manages a subset of a merchandising category and selects items for product line review in partnership with merchants. Optimizes assortment using data and financial projections. Works with respective merchandising teams to implement appropriate supplier strategies.**Major Tasks, Responsibilities, and Key Accountabilities*** Inputs and maintains data in various merchandising systems.* Analyzes financial data and takes measurements to forecast growth and merchandising opportunities.* Reviews competitive market data for assigned merchandising categories.* Performs various administrative duties, including managing the SKU life cycle, preparing for vendor meetings, maintaining vendor contact information and inquiries, and performing ad hoc projects as assigned.* Assists merchant team with product category management, including managing category subsets. Works with merchants to resolve issues.* Produces reports and analyses for vendor meetings and negotiations.* Conducts root cause analysis for variation between supply and demand forecasts and collaborates with internal departments to recommend solutions.**Nature and Scope*** Demonstrates skill in data analysis techniques by resolving missing/incomplete information and inconsistencies/anomalies in more complex research/data.* Nature of work requires increasing independence; receives guidance only on unusual, complex problems or issues. Work review typically involves periodic review of output by a supervisor and/or direct customers of the process.* May provide general guidance/direction to or train junior level support or professional personnel.**Work Environment*** Located in a comfortable indoor area. Any unpleasant conditions would be infrequent and not objectionable.* Most of the time is spent sitting in a comfortable position and there is frequent opportunity to move about. On rare occasions there may be a need to move or lift light articles.* Typically requires overnight travel less than 10% of the time.**Education and Experience*** Typically requires BS/BA in a related discipline. Generally 2-5 years of experience in a related field OR MS/MA and generally 2-4 years of experience in a related field. Certification is required in some areas.**CA, CO, CT, D.C., HI, IL, MA, MD, MN, NJ, NV, NY, OH, RI, VT , WA Job Seekers:****Pay Range**$70,600.00-$104,100.00 AnnualHDS provides the following benefits to all permanent full-time associates:* Medical (with Prescription drug coverage), dental, and vision plans* Health care and Dependent Care FSA (as applicable)* 401(K) with company match* Paid Holiday, Vacation, Personal Time, and Wellness Day* Paid Sick Time* Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance* Short and Long-term Disability Insurance* Critical Illness Insurance* Accident Insurance* Whole Life insurance* Commuter Benefits* Tuition Reimbursement* Employee Assistance Program* Adoption and Surrogacy AssistanceCA, CO, CT, D.C., HI, IL, MA, MD, MN, NJ, NV, NY, OH, RI, VT and WA law requires the posting of the potential salary range for advertised jobs. Individual base pay is determined based on a variety of elements including market data, experience, skills, internal equity and other factors.**Our Goals for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion**We are committed to creating a culture that promotes equity, respect, and advocacy for every HD Supply associate. We value the diversity of our people.**Equal Employment Opportunity**HD Supply is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.At HD Supply, we believe that our core purpose is to improve our associates’ lives and equip them with the tools needed to provide exceptional customer experiences every day. As one of the largest industrial distributors in North America, we enable our customers’ success by consistently delivering what they need, where and when they need it. has more than 80 years of experience supporting our customers with leadership positions in the maintenance, repair and operations (MRO). With 44 distribution centers spread across 25 states and two Canadian provinces, HD Supply provides an expansive offering of approximately 200,000 SKUs featuring high-quality, name-brand and proprietary products – all at competitive prices.Combine this with our industry-leading, value-add services – including localized jobsite delivery, will-call and direct-ship options, diversified logistics and innovative solutions – and you can see why our more than 300,000 customers continue to trust HD Supply as their first choice supplier for getting the job done. #J-18808-Ljbffr