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Associate Merchandise Planner Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Come see why our associates love working at MasterBrand. MasterBrand isn't just a cabinet company ... merchandise from vendors to retail store locations or the end customer, may match here. Equal ...

Merchandise Manager

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$47K - $58K/yr

The MM guides a team of Task Associates and is accountable for supporting the operations of a ... planning, and individual development plans to enable continuous development and drive sales ...

Merchandise Manager

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

The MM guides a team of Task Associates and is accountable for supporting the operations of a ... planning, and individual development plans to enable continuous development and drive sales ...

Merchandise Manager

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$47K - $58K/yr

The MM guides a team of Task Associates and is accountable for supporting the operations of a ... planning, and individual development plans to enable continuous development and drive sales ...

Merchandise Manager

Mason City, IA · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

The MM guides a team of Task Associates and is accountable for supporting the operations of a ... planning, and individual development plans to enable continuous development and drive sales ...

Merchandise Manager

Mason City, IA · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

The MM guides a team of Task Associates and is accountable for supporting the operations of a ... planning, and individual development plans to enable continuous development and drive sales ...

Merchandise Manager

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$47K - $58K/yr

The MM guides a team of Task Associates and is accountable for supporting the operations of a ... planning, and individual development plans to enable continuous development and drive sales ...

Merchandise Manager

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

The MM guides a team of Task Associates and is accountable for supporting the operations of a ... planning, and individual development plans to enable continuous development and drive sales ...

Merchandise Manager

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

The MM guides a team of Task Associates and is accountable for supporting the operations of a ... planning, and individual development plans to enable continuous development and drive sales ...

Merchandise Manager

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49K - $60K/yr

The MM guides a team of Task Associates and is accountable for supporting the operations of a ... planning, and individual development plans to enable continuous development and drive sales ...

They support the Merchandise Manager (MM) and Operations Manager (OM) through a focus on ... planned and product is available for purchase. * Meet compliance and execution goals related to ...

They support the Merchandise Manager (MM) and Operations Manager (OM) through a focus on ... planned and product is available for purchase. * Meet compliance and execution goals related to ...

They support the Merchandise Manager (MM) and Operations Manager (OM) through a focus on ... planned and product is available for purchase. * Meet compliance and execution goals related to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Merchandise Planner information

See Iowa salary details

$55.4K

$66.2K

$80.8K

How much do associate merchandise planner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate merchandise planner in Iowa is $66,165.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,600.00 and $70,000.00 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 Iowa?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Associate Merchandise Planner job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,165 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Specialist I, Planner

Waterloo, IA • On-site

MasterBrand Cabinets LLC
Construction Materials Wholesalers • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Plans and implements activities related to procurement, inventory control, planning, and quality control of production materials.

  • Develops, implements, and maintains policies, procedures, and material control systems to reduce costs and streamline processes.

  • Ensures the availability of materials in the supply chain and maintains inventory at minimum acceptable levels.


MasterBrand Cabinets rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 96 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

For more than 70 years, MasterBrand has been shaping the places where people come together, enriching lives and creating meaningful memories for our customers. We are the #1 manufacturer of residential cabinets in North America, and our associates produce the most comprehensive portfolio of superior cabinetry products for the kitchen, bath and other parts of the home. Come see why our associates love working at MasterBrand.
Job Description:
Applies knowledge and basic problem solving techniques to define and resolve problems. Determines a course of action based on guidelines. Works on problems of limited scope. Follows standard practices and procedures in analyzing situations or data from which answers can be readily obtained. Work is reviewed periodically based on a set of defined procedures or precedence. Normally receives general instruction on work and new assignments. Develops stable working relationships internally. Exchanges standard/basic information with colleagues and immediate supervisor, project leaders and other professionals in the team./group.Typically requires no previous professional experience.
Plans and implements activities related to the timely, cost-effective procurement, inventory control, planning and quality control of production materials. Develops, implements, and maintains policies, procedures, and material control systems to reduce costs, streamline procedures, and implement solutions. Ensures the availability of materials in the supply chain, as scheduled, and the maintenance of inventory at minimum acceptable levels. Responsible for sourcing and supplying raw materials, utilities and outside services, as well coordinating global procurement efforts. Coordinates with finance/accounting on matters involving inventory-carrying costs. Reviews and plans requirements for acceptable inventory. May assist with the establishment and maintenance of the production control system. May work with customers in auditing customer inventory levels and with internal and external vendors to comply with inventory policies. Companies in a retail environment, employees responsible for the planning, inventory, logistics, import/export, distribution, inventory control and shipment of merchandise from vendors to retail store locations or the end customer, may match here.
Equal Employment Opportunity
MasterBrand Cabinets LLC is an equal opportunity employer. MasterBrand Cabinets LLC's policy is not to discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability/handicap status, marital status, military status, sexual orientation, genetic history or information, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. MasterBrand Cabinets LLC also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also MasterBrand Cabinets LLC's policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions.
Reasonable Accommodations
MasterBrand Cabinets LLC is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you have a disability and wish to discuss potential accommodations related to applying for employment, please contact us at staffing@masterbrand.com.

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