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Merchandise Associate Jobs in Buffalo, MN (NOW HIRING)

Sales Associate

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Regularly inform management about merchandise restocking, service requirements, and any customer ... associate schedules, and standard operating procedures * Must be able to remain in a stationary ...

sales associate

Albertville, MN · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Regularly inform management about merchandise restocking, service requirements, and any customer ... associate schedules, and standard operating procedures * Must be able to remain in a stationary ...

sales associate

Albertville, MN · On-site

$14 - $19/hr

Regularly inform management about merchandise restocking, service requirements, and any customer ... associate schedules, and standard operating procedures * Must be able to remain in a stationary ...

Sales Associate

Elk River, MN

$14.75 - $20/hr

Regularly inform management about merchandise restocking, service requirements, and any customer ... associate schedules, and standard operating procedures * Must be able to remain in a stationary ...

Part-time Retail Stock Associate

Medina, MN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.25/hr

The Merchandising Stock Associate ensures freight is processed efficiently to maximize product service levels and is responsible for providing an exceptional in-store customer service experience by ...

Sales Associate

Monticello, MN · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Regularly inform management about merchandise restocking, service requirements, and any customer ... associate schedules, and standard operating procedures * Must be able to remain in a stationary ...

Sales Associate

Monticello, MN · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Regularly inform management about merchandise restocking, service requirements, and any customer ... associate schedules, and standard operating procedures * Must be able to remain in a stationary ...

Sales Associate

Elk River, MN · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Regularly inform management about merchandise restocking, service requirements, and any customer ... associate schedules, and standard operating procedures * Must be able to remain in a stationary ...

Showing results 41-60

Merchandise Associate information

See Buffalo, MN salary details

$10

$21

$37

How much do merchandise associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for merchandise associate in Buffalo, MN is $21.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $25.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Merchandise Associate vs Stock Clerk?

AspectMerchandise AssociateStock Clerk
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require retail or customer service experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; physical ability to lift and move stock
Work EnvironmentRetail stores, customer-facing, assisting shoppersStockrooms, back-of-house, inventory management
Employer & Industry UsageRetail chains, department stores, supermarketsWarehouses, retail stores, distribution centers
Common Search & ComparisonCustomer service, sales support, merchandisingInventory, stocking, logistics

The main difference between a Merchandise Associate and a Stock Clerk lies in their focus and work environment. Merchandise Associates primarily engage with customers and assist with product displays in retail settings, while Stock Clerks handle inventory management and stock replenishment behind the scenes. Both roles require similar credentials but serve different functions within the retail industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a merchandise associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Merchandise Associate, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in retail or inventory management, often supported by a high school diploma. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory tracking software, and basic merchandising tools is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and customer service skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities ensure accurate stock management, appealing product displays, and positive customer experiences, which drive sales and store efficiency.

Is merchandising a tough job?

Merchandising as a Merchandise Associate involves tasks such as organizing products, stocking shelves, and maintaining displays, which can require physical effort and attention to detail. The job often involves working in a fast-paced retail environment, sometimes with irregular hours, but it generally does not require specialized certifications. The difficulty level varies based on the store's size and workload, but it is typically considered manageable with proper training and organization.

What do you do as a merchandise associate?

A merchandise associate is responsible for stocking shelves, organizing products, and ensuring the sales floor is clean and presentable. They may also assist customers, process shipments, and use inventory management tools to track stock levels. The role often requires physical activity and attention to detail to maintain store standards.

What does a merchandise associate do?

A Merchandise Associate is responsible for ensuring that store shelves are stocked, organized, and visually appealing to customers. They assist with receiving and unpacking merchandise shipments, pricing items, and arranging products according to store guidelines. Merchandise Associates also help customers locate items, answer questions about products, and may assist with inventory management. Their work supports the overall shopping experience and helps the store meet sales goals.

How does a merchandise associate typically collaborate with other departments within a retail store?

Merchandise Associates work closely with various teams, including sales associates, inventory managers, and store leadership, to ensure products are effectively displayed and stocked. They frequently communicate with inventory staff to coordinate timely replenishment and may assist visual merchandisers in setting up promotional displays. This role often requires teamwork and clear communication to maintain store appearance and support sales initiatives. Collaboration with these departments helps create a seamless shopping experience for customers and ensures store goals are met.
More about Merchandise Associate jobs
What cities near Buffalo, MN are hiring for Merchandise Associate jobs? Cities near Buffalo, MN with the most Merchandise Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Merchandise Associate job openings in Buffalo, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,546 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Operations Associate - Crossroads Ctr

JCPenney

Saint Cloud, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


JCPenney rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 676 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 21 rated department stores


Job description

The Operations Associate's role is to create an outstanding customer experience by performing operations functions within the store. The Operations Associate role is an early morning position and you will work with the a team to perform functions prior to store opening.
Primary Responsibilities:
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  • Customer Service - You're maneuvering around the store at a fast pace, working with all the latest merchandise, but when a customer stops to ask you a question or request assistance, there's no one they'd rather be talking to other than you.
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  • Executes pricing and signing - You can change ticket prices and signing on merchandise across the store better and faster than anyone!
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  • Replenish and restock the store: You understand the needs of the customer. When merchandise is getting low, you assist your sales floor peers and leaders by pulling and preparing merchandise to go the floor in order to ensure all of our customers have the styles and sizes they need.
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  • Receive and unload merchandise: You work with your co-workers to unload a truck and prepare the merchandise in the backroom.
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  • Backroom standards: You keep the stockroom safe, clean, and organized .
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  • Omnichannel: You will contribute to Omichannel efforts including Buy Online Pickup in Store, Ship from Store, Order Delivery and Returns, Shipping Online Orders, and Merchandise Receiving.
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  • Merchandise strategy: You take the plans that have been communicated by leadership on where to place merchandise throughout the store and execute the plan with efficiency and detail. You understand the merchandising standards and work to deliver an outstanding customer experience by maintaining these standards as you flow goods to the sales floor.
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  • Participates in a learning environment: You absorb new information from your peers or training materials on our merchandise, shrink, safety, productivity, and other business processes.

Core Competencies & Accomplisments:
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  • Results: Solve problems and make smart decisions that drive sales, profit or customer service; execute your work efficiently and effectively; inspire strong performance in yourself and others
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  • Ownership: Provide great customer service; cooperate and build positive, inclusive and respectful relationships; take accountability for your actions and outcomes
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  • Intensity: Proactively find ways to improve the customer experience; show the confidence and courage to do what's right; take action with energy and urgency
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  • Work experience- 1-2 years retail experience

At this time, JCPenney does not anticipate closing this job opportunity.
What you get:
If eligible, we offer a competitive benefits package including medical/dental/vision, term life insurance, paid vacation/holidays*, and 401(k) with Company match. All associates are eligible for an associate discount on JCPenney merchandise. For paid holidays, associates who are eligible for paid vacation (MTO) are also eligible for eight paid holidays during the calendar year. All store hourly associates scheduled to work on a designated holiday will receive additional compensation. *For paid vacation days, as well as eligibility requirements for other benefits, please visit www.catalystbrandsbenefits.com

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