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Associate Merchandise Planner Jobs in Madison, WI

Ulta Beauty

Task Associate

Janesville, WI · On-site

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 ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Task Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

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 ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Task Associate

Janesville, WI · On-site

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 ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Task Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

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 ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Task Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

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 ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Task Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

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 ...

Ulta Beauty

Task Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

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 ...

Ulta Beauty

Task Associate

Madison, WI · On-site

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 ...

CROSSMARK1

Retail Merchandiser -PT

Madison, WI

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

In business for more than 100 years, CROSSMARK employs more than 20,000 associates worldwide in ... Engage every work day with CROSSMARK'S communication tools for the purpose of accurately planning ...

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Associate Merchandise Planner information

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$59.5K

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How much do associate merchandise planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate merchandise planner in Madison, WI is $70,991.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,000.00 and $75,100.00 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 Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Merchandise Planner jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in Madison, WI?

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

What job categories do people searching Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Associate Merchandise Planner jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Associate Merchandise Planner job openings:

Associate Merchandise Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Merchandise Planner job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,991 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Associate Merchandise Manager Lands' End Outfitters

Dodgeville, WI • Hybrid

Lands' End
Apparel and Accessories Stores • 5 - 10K employees

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 104 rated fashion retailers

Recommended by students

Paid breaks

Recommended by parents

Learn more about Lands' Endexternal

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

As an Associate Merchandise Manager, you will be responsible for working with the Lands' End Business Outfitters team merchant (and/or Senior Merchant) to drive categories through product development. Specific responsibilities include financial planning, mindful of bottom line profit and loss, development of new product, and evaluation of existing styles. You will work closely with Design, Creative, Quality, Sourcing, Marketing, Channel Merchants, Inventory and Planning, Technical Design, and Styling collaborating on product content of each catalog and product page/internet, quality, fit of styles and customer fulfillment to give our customer the best experience. This position would support both Strategic Growth Account initiatives and National Account merchandising operations.

 Job Functions (Employees must be able to perform the job functions of this position satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the duties, knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required.  If requested, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.)

  • Bring strong third-party program experience, including quoting, assortment management, and program administration
  • Responsible for driving and delivering financial plan and metrics for one or more product categories
  • Develop and execute strategies that align with divisional and category strategies.
  • Execute assortment plan from concept to customer that will hit financial targets deliver sales and profit objectives.
  • Manage business In-Season. React to findings to drive current and future seasonal results.
  • Analyze findings (financial, competitive analysis, etc.), draw conclusions and provide recommendations and actions to drive the business.
  • Report on weekly business with suggested in-season actions and future actions.
  • Lead collaboration with cross-functional teams to execute actions that deliver category and line targets and support seasonal strategies.
  • Lead weekly Line Status/Omni meetings with cross-functional teams
  • Manage assortment communication with international partners
  • Conduct market research on the customer and the brand and apply that knowledge to product and business plans.
  • Present strategies and key deliverables in milestone meetings with clarity and confidence.
  • Certain categories may require the management/development of a Merchandising Assistant
  • Ad hoc projects as needed by the team

Skills

  • Strong experience in working cross functionally with a sales organization.
  • Experience as an external vendor contact needed.
  • Must be a team player with the ability to effectively interact with different communication styles.
  • Strong leadership, interpersonal and organizational skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage projects from concept to completion within time constraints.
  • Exceptional presentation skills
  • Ability to support decisions made for your category
  • Proficient excel, IPLM, Quick view, OBIEE, AP, ILE, Business Objects
  • Excellent analytical, decision making, multi-tasking and problem-solving skills.
  • Must be organized and self-motivated.

Physical Requirements

  • Constant sitting
  • Frequent fine finger manipulation
  • Occasional standing/walking
  • Ability to travel as needed.

 Education & Experience Requirements

  • 1-3 years buying or merchandising experience either in catalog, specialty or department store environment or relevant experience in other related field (i.e. marketing, business management etc.)
  • 2-3 years product development experience in apparel.
  • B2B experience helpful

This is a hybrid role with three weeks per month onsite in Dodgeville, WI (Monday – Thursday, Friday is remote). The fourth week is fully remote.

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