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Merchandise Planning Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Big Lots

Associate Planner

Henderson, NC · On-site

Qualifications 1. Bachelor's degree required. 2. Retail, planning, allocation, merchandising, or business analysis internship or work experience preferred. 3. Strong analytical aptitude with the ...

Roses Discount Stores

Associate Planner

Henderson, NC · On-site

Qualifications 1. Bachelor's degree required. 2. Retail, planning, allocation, merchandising, or business analysis internship or work experience preferred. 3. Strong analytical aptitude with the ...

ALO

Associate Merchandise Planner

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

OVERVIEW We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Associate Merchandise Planner to support ... Internship or retail experience in fashion buying, planning, or allocation. * Familiarity with ...

ALO

Associate Merchandise Planner

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

OVERVIEW We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Associate Merchandise Planner to support ... Internship or retail experience in fashion buying, planning, or allocation. * Familiarity with ...

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Merchandise Planning Internship information

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How much do merchandise planning internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for merchandise planning internship in the United States is $17.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a merchandise planning internship?

A Merchandise Planning Internship is a temporary, entry-level position that provides hands-on experience in the retail industry, focusing on inventory management, sales forecasting, and product allocation. Interns work closely with merchandise planners and buyers to analyze sales data, track inventory levels, and help optimize product assortments to maximize profitability. This internship is ideal for those interested in a career in retail management, buying, or merchandising, as it offers exposure to the strategic decision-making process behind what products are stocked and sold. Interns often gain valuable skills in data analysis, communication, and teamwork, preparing them for future roles in the industry.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on during a merchandise planning internship?

As a Merchandise Planning Intern, you'll typically assist with analyzing sales data, forecasting inventory needs, and creating reports to support buying and allocation decisions. You may also help prepare presentations for planning meetings, conduct market or competitor research, and collaborate with cross-functional teams such as buying, marketing, and supply chain. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into the retail planning process and helps you develop analytical and communication skills essential for career growth in merchandising.

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

To thrive as a Merchandise Planning Intern, a strong foundation in analytical skills, attention to detail, and coursework in business, finance, or merchandising is essential. Familiarity with Excel, inventory management systems, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong communication, organizational abilities, and a proactive approach help interns excel in team settings and adapt to changing priorities. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting inventory decisions, ensuring product availability, and driving business results in a retail environment.

What is the difference between Merchandise Planning Internship vs Merchandise Planning Coordinator?

AspectMerchandise Planning InternshipMerchandise Planning Coordinator
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate, some internships may require coursework in retail or businessBachelor's degree in business, retail, or related field; experience preferred
Work EnvironmentTemporary, learning-focused, often in retail or corporate officesFull-time, ongoing role in retail or fashion companies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by retail companies for training and talent pipelineCommonly employed in retail, fashion, and consumer goods industries
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched by students or entry-level candidates exploring careerssearched by those seeking career advancement or role clarification

In summary, a Merchandise Planning Internship is an entry-level, temporary position designed for students or recent graduates to gain industry experience. In contrast, a Merchandise Planning Coordinator is a full-time role requiring some experience, focusing on executing merchandise plans and supporting the planning team.

How to get into a merchandise planning internship?

To secure a merchandise planning internship, candidates should have a strong understanding of retail operations, data analysis, and inventory management. Relevant skills include proficiency in Excel and retail software, along with a relevant coursework or degree in business, fashion, or related fields. Applying through company career portals, networking, and demonstrating analytical abilities can improve chances of acceptance.

What does a merchandise planning internship do?

A merchandise planning internship involves assisting with analyzing sales data, forecasting demand, and developing inventory plans to ensure product availability. Interns often use tools like Excel or specialized planning software and support the merchandising team in optimizing stock levels and sales performance.
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Merchandise Planning Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Merchandise Planning Internship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,285 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Associate Planner

Variety Wholesalers Inc

Henderson, NC

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Variety Wholesalers rating

4.2

Company rating: 4.2 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

707th of 734 rated retailers

Job description

Key Responsibilities

1. Assist in developing seasonal merchandise plans at the department and class level in partnership with Buyers and Merchandise Planners, balancing close-out and non-close-out business opportunities.

2. Support the development and maintenance of sales, inventory, and margin forecasts through analysis of historical performance, trends, and business opportunities.

3. Participate in ongoing business reviews and provide observations, recommendations, and analysis to support planning decisions.

4. Assist in creating and maintaining subclass and SKU-level forecasts, ladder plans, and inventory projections.

5. Support Open-to-Buy (OTB) management by reviewing inventory levels, sales performance, receipt timing, and forecasted demand.

6. Analyze business results and identify trends, risks, and opportunities that impact sales, margin, and inventory productivity.

7. Assist in developing promotional forecasts and inventory recommendations to support marketing and merchandising strategies.

8. Support assortment planning efforts to ensure appropriate inventory levels and product mix across categories and stores.

9. Partner with Buyers, Allocation Analysts, and Merchandise Planners to support execution of merchandising and inventory strategies.

10. Prepare reports, presentations, and analyses that communicate business performance, trends, and opportunities.

11. Collaborate with Planning, Merchandising, Allocation, Replenishment, and Marketing teams to develop a broad understanding of the retail business.

12. Visit stores periodically to gain knowledge of merchandising strategies, customer shopping behaviors, inventory flow, and market trends.

13. Contribute to process improvements by learning and utilizing planning tools, systems, and best practices.

14. Demonstrate continuous growth in planning, forecasting, inventory management, and analytical capabilities.

Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s degree required.

2. Retail, planning, allocation, merchandising, or business analysis internship or work experience preferred.

3. Strong analytical aptitude with the ability to interpret data and identify trends.

4. Demonstrated retail math and problem-solving capabilities.

5. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

6. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

7. Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

8. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other business software applications.

9. Willingness and ability to learn merchandising, planning, forecasting, and inventory management processes.

10. Ability to quickly learn new systems, tools, and technologies.

11. Demonstrated initiative, curiosity, and desire to develop a career in Merchandise Planning.

Success Measures

1. Demonstrates increasing proficiency in merchandise planning and forecasting concepts.

2. Provides accurate and timely analysis to support business decisions.

3. Contributes to achievement of sales, margin, inventory, and productivity goals.

4. Develops strong partnerships with Merchandising, Allocation, Replenishment, and Planning teams.

5. Successfully progresses toward independent ownership of planning functions and responsibilities.

6. Continuously expands knowledge of retail planning strategies, systems, and best practices.

What Variety Wholesalers employees say

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