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Merchandise Planning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position is responsible for merchandise planning and business management for multiple Merchandise Departments. The Merchandise Planner's responsibility includes but not limited to achieve sales ...

Reporting to the Director of Merchandise Planning, the Merchandise Planner will own financial forecasting and in-season strategies, proactively identifying risks and opportunities to maximize revenue ...

Inventory Planning * Manage merchandise planning for multiple product categories and contribute to category results * Navigate the unique complexities of fine jewelry inventory, including diamond and ...

Inventory Planning * Manage merchandise planning for multiple product categories and contribute to category results * Navigate the unique complexities of fine jewelry inventory, including diamond and ...

In short As the Head of Merchandise Planning, Americas, you will chart the course and set the strategic direction for all financial and product planning across the region. This role requires ...

Head of Merchandise Planning

New York, NY · On-site

$220K - $270K/yr

In short As the Head of Merchandise Planning, Americas, you will chart the course and set the strategic direction for all financial and product planning across the region. This role requires ...

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Merchandise Planning information

See salary details

$55.5K

$97.2K

$152K

How much do merchandise planning jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for merchandise planning in the United States is $97,202.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is merchandise planning a good career?

Merchandise planning is a viable career that involves analyzing sales data, inventory levels, and market trends to optimize product assortments and stock levels. It requires strong analytical skills, familiarity with retail software, and the ability to work under deadlines. The role offers opportunities for advancement into management and strategic positions within retail or manufacturing companies.

What is merchandise planning?

Merchandise planning is the process used by retailers and brands to ensure that the right products are available at the right time, place, and quantity to meet customer demand while maximizing sales and minimizing markdowns. It involves forecasting sales, managing inventory, and developing buying strategies based on historical data and market trends. Effective merchandise planning helps businesses achieve financial goals, improve stock efficiency, and respond quickly to changes in consumer preferences.

What are some common challenges faced in Merchandise Planning and how can they be addressed?

Merchandise Planning professionals often encounter challenges such as forecasting demand accurately, balancing inventory levels, and adapting to rapidly changing consumer trends. These challenges can be addressed by leveraging data analytics tools, maintaining close collaboration with buying and sales teams, and regularly reviewing sales performance to make timely adjustments. Additionally, strong communication and negotiation skills are essential for aligning stakeholders and ensuring that inventory decisions support both short-term goals and long-term business objectives.

What is the difference between Merchandise Planning vs Inventory Planning?

AspectMerchandise PlanningInventory Planning
FocusDeveloping strategies for product assortment, assortment mix, and sales forecastsManaging stock levels, replenishment, and stock turnover
ResponsibilitiesSelecting products, analyzing sales trends, and planning merchandise assortmentsMonitoring inventory levels, reducing stockouts, and optimizing stock costs
Skills & CredentialsAnalytical skills, retail industry knowledge, forecasting experienceData analysis, supply chain understanding, inventory management certifications

While both roles involve planning and analysis within retail, Merchandise Planning focuses on product assortment and sales forecasting, whereas Inventory Planning centers on stock levels and replenishment strategies. Understanding these differences helps retailers optimize both product offerings and inventory efficiency.

What is the highest paying merchandiser job?

The highest paying merchandiser roles are typically senior or executive positions such as Merchandising Director or Vice President of Merchandising, which can earn six-figure salaries. These roles often require extensive experience, strategic planning skills, and leadership responsibilities within retail or manufacturing companies.

What is a merchandise planner's salary?

The average salary for a merchandise planner typically ranges from $50,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and company size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced planners or those in senior roles can earn over $100,000 annually. Skills in data analysis and inventory management tools are often required.

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

To thrive as a Merchandise Planner, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in forecasting, inventory management, and a background in business or related fields. Familiarity with retail planning software like Oracle Retail, SAP, or JDA, as well as advanced Excel skills, is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and adaptability help you collaborate effectively with buyers, vendors, and cross-functional teams. These skills are essential to optimize inventory levels, maximize sales, and ensure profitability in a dynamic retail environment.

What does a merchandise planner do?

A merchandise planner is responsible for analyzing sales data, forecasting demand, and developing inventory strategies to ensure the right products are available at the right time. They collaborate with buying teams and use planning tools to optimize stock levels, maximize sales, and minimize excess inventory. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of retail systems are essential for this role.
What cities are hiring for Merchandise Planning jobs? Cities with the most Merchandise Planning job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Merchandise Planning jobs? The most popular types of Merchandise Planning jobs are:
What states have the most Merchandise Planning jobs? States with the most job openings for Merchandise Planning jobs include:
Merchandise Planner

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


The Container Store rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 726 rated retailers


Job description

Overview

The Merchandise Planner is responsible for executing the merchandise planning process for assigned departments or categories. Working under the direction of a Senior Merchandise Planner, Merchandise Planning Manager, or Director, the Merchandise Planner develops and maintains financial plans, analyzes business performance, and partners with the Buying and Allocation teams to support sound inventory management and achieve departmental financial goals.

What We Stand For 

Established in 1978, The Container Store has grown to be the leading specialty retailer of storage and organization products in the United States and the only national retailer solely devoted to the category. We provide creative, multifunctional, customizable storage and organization solutions that help our customers save time, save space and improve the quality of their lives. We foster a culture built around our Foundation Principles, which define how we approach our relationships with our employees, vendors, customers and communities and influence every aspect of our business. 

Responsibilities
  • Develop, maintain, and revise bottom-up department sales, margin, and inventory turn plans for assigned categories in alignment with divisional and company financial goals.
  • Partner with the Buying team to manage inventory levels through accurate forecasting, assortment planning, and markdown strategies.
  • Maintain open-to-buy for assigned departments, ensuring all purchase orders fall within approved financial parameters.
  • Develop sales and margin goals for promotional events within assigned categories; coordinate with the Allocation team to support appropriate inventory levels on promotional merchandise.
  • Identify and communicate weekly markdown needs and recommendations to the Senior Merchandise Planner, Merchandise Planning Manager, or Director.
  • Run and analyze reports on a regular basis to monitor business performance, identify trends, and surface risks and opportunities to planning leadership.
  • Partner with the Allocation team to support inventory balance across store locations for assigned departments.
  • Assist in the development and training of Associate Planners as directed.
  • Participate in cross-functional meetings with Buying, Allocation, and Finance teams to support integrated business planning.
  • Demonstrates a commitment to The Container Store's values

We believe in taking care of our team. That's why we offer a comprehensive benefits package that goes beyond just health insurance (though we've got that covered too!). Here at The Container Store, we're passionate about helping you contain your healthgrow your career, and find balance in your life.

Here's a peek at what you can expect:

  • Rewarding pay to recognize the value you bring to the team. 
  • Competitive health, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your loved ones well.
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with optional investment guidance and assistance offered through Fidelity.
  • Unique "1equals3" website for easy access to your benefits information and company updates.
  • We've got your back! Competitive sick pay and PTO plan to ensure you can take time off to recharge and come back feeling your best.

For our full-time associates, we offer even more:

  • Peace-of-mind benefits: Basic life insurance, disability insurance options, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, hospital indemnity insurance and flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
  • Family-focused support: Considerate parental leave policies, adoption and surrogacy assistance, and fertility & maternity support program.
  • Work-life balance boosters: Paid holidays, gym membership discounts, and a qualified transportation benefits program to save on commutes.
  • Discounts galore: Enjoy a hefty discount on our amazing products, including merchandise, custom spaces, and services, gift cards, and pet insurance (because fur-babies matter!).
  • Recognition you deserve: We honor our employees with service awards and retirement gifts, celebrate those who exemplify our core principles, and recognize exceptional daily contributions.
  • Thriving with diversity: Participate in our Employee Resource and Affinity Groups and help guide how we give back to the community, while having a space to connect, support one another, and celebrate cultural heritages.

But that's not all! We offer a fun and collaborative work environment where you can learn, grow, and make a real difference.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree required.
  • 2+ years of merchandise planning or related retail experience.
  • Highly motivated and results oriented with a demonstrated ability to deliver against departmental financial goals.
  • Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with cross-functional partners including Buying and Allocation.
  • Ability to present business performance updates and action plans to planning leadership.
  • Demonstrates strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and draw meaningful conclusions.
  • Demonstrates strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Must have strong technical skills; specifically, Microsoft Excel and Business Intelligence software.
  • Experience with Planning and Allocation tools preferred; Oracle / JDA plus.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office suite.

The Container Store promotes a smoke-free, drug-free environment. 

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and comply with the

Americans with Disabilities Act

Stores Physical Requirements

State Specific Notices

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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