ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Associate Merchandise Planner Jobs in Mattoon, IL

Rural King

Inventory Planner

Mattoon, IL · On-site

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 ...

Rural King

Inventory Planner

Mattoon, IL

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 ...

Rural King

Inventory Planner

Mattoon, IL · On-site

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 ...

Rural King

Associate Buyer, Automotive

Mattoon, IL · On-site

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We ... Develop seasonal merchandise assortments along with pricing and merchandising plans. * Planning ...

Rural King

Associate Buyer, Automotive

Mattoon, IL

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We ... Develop seasonal merchandise assortments along with pricing and merchandising plans. * Planning ...

Rural King

Associate Buyer, Automotive

Mattoon, IL · On-site

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We ... Develop seasonal merchandise assortments along with pricing and merchandising plans. * Planning ...

Rural King

Buyer In-Training

Mattoon, IL · On-site

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We ... Strategic assortment planning * Vendor partnership development * Margin optimization strategies

Rural King

Buyer In-Training

Mattoon, IL · On-site

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We ... Strategic assortment planning * Vendor partnership development * Margin optimization strategies

Rural King

Buyer In-Training

Mattoon, IL · On-site

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We ... Strategic assortment planning * Vendor partnership development * Margin optimization strategies

Rural King

Buyer In-Training

Mattoon, IL · On-site

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We ... Strategic assortment planning * Vendor partnership development * Margin optimization strategies

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Merchandise Planner JobsAssociate Merchandise Planner Jobs in Mattoon, IL

Associate Merchandise Planner information

See Mattoon, IL salary details

$55.4K

$66.2K

$80.8K

How much do associate merchandise planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate merchandise planner in Mattoon, IL is $66,170.00, 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 job categories do people searching Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in Mattoon, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Merchandise Planner jobs in Mattoon, IL are:

What cities near Mattoon, IL are hiring for Associate Merchandise Planner jobs?

Cities near Mattoon, IL with the most Associate Merchandise Planner job openings:

Associate Merchandise Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Merchandise Planner job openings in Mattoon, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,170 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Inventory Planner

Rural King

Mattoon, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Rural King rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 357 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

607th of 734 rated retailers

Job description

Overview
About us
Rural King is America's Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 150 locations across 17 states and is constantly expanding. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.
One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.
At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.
How we reward you
401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%
Healthcare plans to support your needs
Virtual doctor visits
Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic's Complex Care Program
15% Associate Discount
Dave Ramsey's SmartDollar Program
Associate Assistance Program
RK Cares Associate Hardship Program
24/7 Chaplaincy Services
Company paid YMCA Family Membership
Responsibilities
What You'll Do
As an Inventory Planner, you will be managing and optimizing inventory investments to meet customer demand while minimizing carrying costs and maintaining service levels. The Inventory Planner works closely with the merchandising, replenishment and supply chain teams to develop inventory strategies, forecasting, and assortment plans that align with the company's financial objectives. This role is accountable for making decisions that carry a significant financial impact to the company and serves as the primary analytical resource for the merchant & replenishment teams they support.
  • Develop and execute purchasing plans that optimize sales, profit, and operating cash flow.
  • Lead the short-, medium-, and long-term forecasting of customer demand utilizing sophisticated demand planning tools and statistical models.
  • Lead the open-to-buy process by creating practical sales and inventory plans while holding business partners accountable to financial targets. Summarize & communicate variances to plan and strategies to improve performance.
  • Analyze freight flow and efficient movement of product through the supply chain; provide data-based recommendations on improving efficiency & cost to serve.
  • Lead preseason strategy development and vendor planning, recommending inventory flow adjustments and assortment modifications based on individual store performance.
  • Identify underperforming product categories using analysis & data-driven insights to recommend actionable improvement plans
  • Complete multi-year trend analysis on products and classifications, extrapolating into scenarios to drive the next season's planning
  • Create and maintain seasonal/short life cycle SKU groupings, using data and analysis tools to track inventory levels, sell-thru, and profitability.
  • Provide markdown analysis and recommendations, holding business partners accountable in achieving a balance between gross profit and inventory investment.
  • Use discretion and independent judgment in daily decisions while maintaining a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.
  • Actively participate in learning initiatives offered such as training programs, workshops, and webinars. Leverage these opportunities to acquire new knowledge, refine existing skills, and stay current on the latest developments.
  • Provide friendly, proactive, and professional internal and external support to others, assisting with inquiries, concerns, and issues promptly and effectively.
  • Demonstrate behaviors that exemplify Rural King's Values: People First, Integrity, Attitude, Initiative, Teamwork, Accountability, and Continuous Improvement.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities
None
Qualifications
Essential Qualities for Success
  • At least 4 years of related experience or equivalent combination of experience and education.
  • Highly proficient in Microsoft Excel.
  • Proficiency with or the ability to quickly learn Oracle Systems.
  • Excellent verbal and written interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Strong understanding of retail business practices.
  • Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Demonstrated behaviors must reflect integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
  • Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically.
  • Ability to navigate and access all facilities.
  • Skill to effectively communicate verbally with others, both in-person and via electronic devices.
  • Close vision for computer-related activities.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
The pay range for this position is $70,000- $80,000 annualized and is bonus eligible. Exact compensation is determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. To learn more about our benefits, review here https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:14539c15-191a-4b77-9c13-f6ccfce10094.

What Rural King employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply