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Associate Merchandise Planner Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Associate Planner-maurices

Duluth, MN · Hybrid

$55K - $70K/yr

The Associate Merchandise Planner is responsible for supporting in the creation, monitoring, and analysis if annual sales & inventory plans and forecasts which result in maximized profit potential.

Associate Merchant

Eagan, MN · On-site

$66K - $76K/yr

Develop product planning through customer insights from the suppliers. (what are they hearing and ... Collaborate with the Merchandise Support Specialists on approved programs to ensure that: * SKUs ...

Merchandise Manager

Stillwater, MN · On-site

$52K - $64K/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

Stillwater, MN · On-site

$52K - $64K/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

Stillwater, MN · On-site

$52K - $64K/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 ...

... Planner * Package and Label Bakery/Deli Products per program plan * Merchandise Bakery/Deli ... Communicate tasks, recipes, weights and measures, and cleaning steps completed to other associates

... Planner * Package and Label Bakery/Deli Products per program plan * Merchandise Bakery/Deli ... Communicate tasks, recipes, weights and measures, and cleaning steps completed to other associates

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Merchandise Planner information

See Minnesota salary details

$57.8K

$69K

$84.2K

How much do associate merchandise planner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate merchandise planner in Minnesota is $68,993.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,200.00 and $73,000.00 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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Associate Merchandise Planner job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,993 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Associate Planner-maurices

Maurices

Duluth, MN • Hybrid

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Maurices rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 256 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 104 rated fashion retailers


Job description

Brand Overview:

At maurices, we're all about feel-good fashion for real life. We're committed to our service with style promise and to offering affordable fashion that takes women from workday to weekend-and all of life's adventures in between. With inclusive sizing from 0-24, maurices is known for versatile styles across key categories like denim, dresses, tops, and more. We've been doing this since 1931, and today you'll find us in over 800 communities across North America and online at maurices.com. At maurices, it's more than clothes - it's where fun, friendship and fashion come together! We believe in putting People First - and that starts with you. We're a collaborative team that leads with kindness, values authenticity, stays curious, and moves with agility. We work smart, have fun, and support one another in a generously flexible environment that empowers you to thrive both personally and professionally. We're headquartered in the heart of Duluth, Minnesota overlooking the beautiful shores of Lake Superior. Our original hometown offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, four-season adventure, and a vibrant college town atmosphere.

Ready to apply? We currently have an opportunity for a Associate Planner-maurices to join our team located at our Corporate Office-maurices-Duluth, MN 55802.Position Overview:

Role Purpose:

The Associate Merchandise Planner is responsible for supporting in the creation, monitoring, and analysis if annual sales & inventory plans and forecasts which result in maximized profit potential. The Associate Merchandise Planner is responsible for pre-season plans and in season projections for key items/assigned categories and identification of opportunity and risk to optimize sales and profit.

Key Responsibilities:

Essential Duties and Functions:

Create and implement annual sales, margin, and inventory plans for assigned key items/categories:

  • Support PLC timeline by initiating plan discussion and development and preparing for milestone meetings.

  • Create and present financially sound key item/category plans through: research and analysis of data, appropriate interpretation of historical data, trend analysis, and collaboration with cross functional partners that support total company financial goals.

  • Support Planner in validating alignment between Merchandise financial plans and assortment plans

OTB/Inventory management:

  • Develops monthly reforecast of sales, and inventory plans for key items. Analyzes historical data and current trends to identify risks and opportunities and to make recommendations for action.

  • Discuss and communicate forecast with team

  • Attend OTB meetings, weekly cross functional meetings to understand trend and impact to key items/categories

Analysis:

  • Weekly and/or monthly reporting - channel performance, core vs plus, etc.

  • Management of key item ladders

  • Average store analysis of categories & key items to support Planner pre-season & in-season process

  • Promo planning/recap for assigned key items/categories

  • Develop ad hoc analyses, recaps, as appropriate

  • Understanding of how trends within your category impact the business as a whole

  • Learn to use and update key merchandise planning reports such as Rolling Projections, Class Plan Recaps, Hindsight Documentation, etc.

Create and maintain strong partnerships:

  • Positively impact and influence others and work effectively and efficiently with peers and cross functional partners.

  • Clearly communicate and collaborate with key business partners including planners, merchants, planning analysts, allocation, and planning peers.

Education/Skills and Experience Requirements:

Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience is required

Experience:

  • 2+ years of retail planning/allocation experience is required

  • Working knowledge of computers with high level of proficiency in excel, word, and database warehouse tools.

Skills:

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills coupled with excellent organizational and communication skills.

  • Ability to develop strong, effective cross-functional relationships.

  • Ability to confidently assert his/her position, while using facts and data to support conclusions and recommendations.

  • Open and agile to change.

  • Strong presentation skills.

Location:Corporate Office-maurices-Duluth, MN 55802Position Type:Regular/Full time

Pay Range:

Annual Salary: $55,000.00 - $70,000.00

This position is eligible for an annual incentive compensation based on company performance.

How We Work: Our Smart Work program pairs the best of inperson collaboration with the flexibility to work remotely, guided by business needs and the nature of each role. Corporate associates work at least three days a week in our offices, with teams setting core days to brainstorm, build relationships, and move work forward. The goal is simple: help you do your best work, stay connected to your team, and maintain healthy worklife balance.

What We Offer: We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance. Full-time associates are eligible for a suite of benefits. Choice of three medical plans, including a PPO plan or High-Deductible plans. High-Deductible plans offer the option of a Health Savings Account, with employer contribution.

Additional benefits include Dental, and Vision coverage, Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare and Dependent Care), Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity coverage, Voluntary Life, Spouse, and Child Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability coverage. maurices provides, at no cost to our associates, Basic Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability coverage, access to our Wellbeing platform with Personify Health, and an Employee Assistance Program available for associates and their families. After 6 months of employment, you may be eligible for our 401(k), which offers an immediately vested Safe Harbor matching contribution. maurices supports continued education with our Tuition Assistance program, available after 1 year of employment.

Associates also have access to PTO benefits, including vacation (with accrual or flexible options based on role), annual sick time awards, holiday pay, and two weeks of New Parent Leave for birth, adoption, or foster placement. We offer continuous opportunities for learning, connection building through Associate Resource Groups and for our Duluth based associates, free access to a state-of-the-art onsite Fitness Facility.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Company is committed to hiring and developing the most qualified people at all levels. It is our policy in all personnel actions to ensure that all associates and potential associates are evaluated on the basis of qualifications and ability without regard to sex (including pregnancy), race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability that can reasonably be accommodated without undue hardship, genetic information, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected classification under federal, state, or local law. We do not discriminate in any of our employment policies and practices. All associates are expected to follow these principles in all relationships with other associates, applicants, or others with whom we do business.


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About Maurices

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Maurices is a world-class specialty retailer that caters to young-at-heart fashionistas in small towns. Rated by Forbes Magazine in 2010 as one of the top 10 Employers in Retail, we pride ourselves on our excellent training programs and the consistent feedback we get from our associates who love to work here. We genuinely care about our customers, our communities, our associates, our business partners, and our results.

Industry

Retail

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Duluth, MN, US

Year founded

1931