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Entry Level Merchandiser Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Host/Hostess

Carlton, OR

$15.50 - $17.50/hr

This is an entry level position, perfect for someone looking to get their feet wet in the industry ... Hourly wage DOE plus a tip share from sales associates, wine and merchandise discount ...

New

Retail Sales Associate - 3788

Tigard, OR · On-site

$17 - $19.50/hr

An entry-level sales position in our pawn store locations nationwide. The Pawnbroker/Sales ... merchandise, as well as all financial solutions offered to customer base. General Duties and ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Merchandiser information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11

$18

$22

How much do entry level merchandiser jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level merchandiser in Portland, OR is $18.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level merchandiser do?

An entry level merchandiser is responsible for organizing, stocking, and displaying products in retail stores to maximize sales and provide a positive shopping experience for customers. Their tasks often include setting up product displays, ensuring shelves are fully stocked, checking inventory, and following company merchandising plans. They may also assist with pricing, promotions, and reporting stock levels or issues to management. This role is key for helping stores look appealing and ensuring customers can easily find the products they need.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level merchandiser, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Merchandiser, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with inventory management systems, planogram software, and handheld scanners is often required. Excellent communication, time management, and teamwork abilities help you stand out in this customer-facing role. These skills ensure products are displayed effectively, shelves remain stocked, and store operations run smoothly to drive sales.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level merchandisers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level merchandisers often encounter challenges such as managing multiple store locations, adapting to last-minute schedule changes, and ensuring displays meet brand standards. Staying organized and communicating regularly with both store staff and supervisors can help manage these demands effectively. Learning to prioritize tasks and being proactive in identifying low-stock or poorly presented items will also support success in the role. Over time, these experiences build valuable skills for advancement within retail operations or visual merchandising.

What is the difference between Entry Level Merchandiser vs Retail Associate?

AspectEntry Level MerchandiserRetail Associate
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require basic merchandising knowledgeHigh school diploma or equivalent; customer service skills
Work EnvironmentStores, warehouses, or client locations; involves physical activity and travelRetail stores; customer-facing, indoor environment
Employer & Industry UsageConsumer goods, retail, and merchandising companiesRetail stores, supermarkets, department stores

While both roles involve working in retail environments, an Entry Level Merchandiser primarily focuses on product placement, inventory management, and visual displays, often traveling between locations. A Retail Associate interacts directly with customers, handles sales transactions, and maintains store cleanliness. Understanding these differences helps job seekers choose the role that best fits their skills and career goals.

Can I be an entry level merchandiser with no experience?

Entry level merchandiser positions typically do not require prior experience, as they focus on training new employees in tasks such as stocking shelves, setting up displays, and maintaining store layouts. Basic skills like attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to work flexible hours are often sufficient to start in this role.

How to become an entry level merchandiser without experience?

To become an entry level merchandiser without experience, focus on developing basic skills such as organization, attention to detail, and communication. Gaining familiarity with retail environments and tools like planograms or inventory management software can help, and some employers may offer on-the-job training for new hires.

How to get started as an entry level merchandiser?

To start as an entry level merchandiser, you should have a high school diploma or equivalent and be comfortable working in retail or warehouse environments. Gaining basic knowledge of product placement, inventory management, and using tools like scanners or POS systems can be helpful. Applying for positions through online job boards or company websites and demonstrating reliability and attention to detail are key steps.

What are the most commonly searched types of Merchandiser jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Merchandiser jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Merchandiser jobs in Portland, OR?

For Entry Level Merchandiser jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Entry Level Merchandiser jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Entry Level Merchandiser job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Merchandiser job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 53% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,100 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Assistant Manager Trainee - Full-time

Big 5 Sporting Goods

Portland, OR • On-site

$17.35 - $17.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Big 5 Sporting Goods rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

547th of 734 rated retailers


Job description

With nearly 400 stores across the western United States, Big 5 Sporting Goods is the neighborhood store that gets you ready to play. For over 70 years, everything we do comes down to having the most energetic, sports-minded individual on our team.
Role Overview
The Management Trainee position is the perfect career opportunity for the sports and outdoor enthusiast. The qualities of our team members serve as a foundation for future growth, and our managers provide leadership and direction to the entire store team.
Our Manager Trainee gains knowledge and experience required for promotion to higher management positions under direction of experienced personnel, by performing the following duties personally or through subordinates. When you join Big 5, you will enjoy a fast-paced work environment with opportunities for growth. This entry-level position is purposely designed to be transitory and generally lasts 6-18 months before promotion to the next level. A well-defined training program will be provided to help you develop your way into a management position. Candidates who apply for this position should be enthusiastic, energetic, sports-minded people with solid customer service backgrounds and/or educational paths well-suited for the industry.
Primary Duties
  • Provide excellent customer service and assist customers throughout the store
  • Driving sales
  • Answer phone calls and respond to customer inquiries
  • Recommend products and suggest add-on sales
  • Direct oversight of footwear and advertising programs, and other departments
  • Merchandising and compliance of all company policies
  • Setting promotional signage
  • Checking and retrieving merchandise from stockroom as needed
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked sales floor
  • Receive merchandise shipment
  • Assist with store opening and closing procedures
  • Training newly hired associates
  • Directing sales and cashier associates throughout the store
  • Inventory control and enforcement of loss prevention policies
  • Enforcement of all company policies
  • Performs or may perform additional duties as assigned by management and supervision

Position Requirements
  • Must be 21 years of age or older
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Must possess basic organizational and/or applicable math skills
  • Detail-oriented and reliable
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Basic knowledge of sporting goods is a plus
  • Must possess High School diploma, GED, or High School Equivalency Exam
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Upon accepting a position offered, candidate will be subject to E-Verify
  • Light to moderate lifting may be required, with or without reasonable accommodation

Benefits
Dental, Medical, Vision Insurance, Savings and Profit-Sharing Plan-401k/Roth IRA, Paid Personal Time Off, Sick Leave, Vacation, Company-sponsored Education Assistance,
Employee Merchandise Discount, Employee Referral Program, Company Paid Life Insurance, Ticket Discounts to Top Attractions and Events, Pet Insurance, Kinecta Credit Union Membership.
Pay Scale: $17.35 - $17.85 per hour
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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