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Merchandising Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

KOHLS

Part-Time Store Merchandising Associate

Portage, IN · On-site

$13.50/hr

Support and partner with other associates on merchandising incoming product All associate roles at Kohl's are responsible for: * Acting with integrity, honesty and fostering teamwork in an engaged ...

KOHLS

Part-Time Store Merchandising Associate

Hodgkins, IL · On-site

$15 - $21.65/hr

Support and partner with other associates on merchandising incoming product All associate roles at Kohl's are responsible for: * Acting with integrity, honesty and fostering teamwork in an engaged ...

KOHLS

Part-Time Store Merchandising Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15 - $21.65/hr

Support and partner with other associates on merchandising incoming product All associate roles at Kohl's are responsible for: * Acting with integrity, honesty and fostering teamwork in an engaged ...

KOHLS

Part-Time Store Merchandising Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $24.90/hr

Support and partner with other associates on merchandising incoming product All associate roles at Kohl's are responsible for: * Acting with integrity, honesty and fostering teamwork in an engaged ...

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All JobsMerchandising Associate JobsMerchandising Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Merchandising Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

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$37

How much do merchandising associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for merchandising associate in Chicago, IL is $20.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a merchandising associate do?

A merchandising associate is responsible for organizing and displaying products in retail stores to attract customers and increase sales. They stock shelves, ensure product availability, and may assist with inventory management and visual merchandising. Strong attention to detail and basic knowledge of retail tools are often required.

What is the highest paying merchandiser job?

The highest paying merchandising roles are often senior or specialized positions such as Merchandising Manager or Director, which can earn significantly higher salaries than entry-level associate roles. These positions typically require extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and knowledge of market trends and inventory management tools.

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

To thrive as a Merchandising Associate, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a basic understanding of retail operations, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with inventory management systems, point-of-sale (POS) software, and planogram tools is typically required. Effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability are essential soft skills that help you work efficiently with colleagues and respond to changing store needs. These abilities ensure that merchandise is accurately stocked, visually appealing, and readily available to customers, directly impacting sales and customer satisfaction.

How much does a merchandiser get paid?

The average hourly wage for a merchandising associate typically ranges from $10 to $15, with annual salaries around $20,000 to $30,000. Pay can vary based on experience, location, and the employer, and some roles may include benefits or bonuses.

What is the difference between Merchandising Associate vs Retail Sales Associate?

AspectMerchandising AssociateRetail Sales Associate
Primary RolePlan, organize, and display products to maximize sales and visual appealAssist customers, process transactions, and promote products
Work EnvironmentStockrooms, store floors, and display areasSales floors and customer service areas
Required SkillsVisual merchandising, inventory management, attention to detailCustomer service, communication, sales skills
Common EmployersRetail chains, department stores, specialty shopsRetail stores, supermarkets, electronics outlets

While both roles work within retail environments, Merchandising Associates focus on product displays and inventory presentation, whereas Retail Sales Associates primarily engage with customers and facilitate sales. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right position based on their skills and interests.

How does a Merchandising Associate typically interact with other departments within a retail environment?

As a Merchandising Associate, you’ll regularly collaborate with teams such as inventory management, sales, and visual merchandising. You’ll work closely with inventory staff to ensure products are stocked and replenished efficiently, and coordinate with sales associates to understand customer preferences and fast-moving items. Additionally, you may partner with the visual merchandising team to implement promotional displays and ensure the store layout aligns with current campaigns. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for ensuring a cohesive shopping experience and meeting sales goals.

Is merchandise associate entry level?

Yes, a merchandise associate position is typically entry-level and often requires minimal prior experience. It involves tasks such as stocking shelves, organizing merchandise, and assisting customers, making it suitable for individuals new to retail work. Strong organizational skills and the ability to work in a team are beneficial for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Merchandising jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Merchandising jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Merchandising Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Merchandising Associate job openings:
Merchandising Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Merchandising Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $43,622 per year, or $21 per hour.

Visual Merchandising Associate

Fastretailing

Chicago, IL

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Salary:$18.00

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide a consistent customer experience by maintaining brand standards for visual presentation, cleanliness, and organization throughout the store.
  • Ensure all merchandise is represented on the floor in full size runs and proper signage is present.
  • Partner with management to prepare for and implement seasonal merchandising presentations and new visual merchandising initiatives.
  • Partner with store management team to monitor merchandise sell through and replenishment utilizing sales reports.
  • Create visually appealing and brand appropriate displays to drive sell through and react to the needs of the business in the store.
  • Adjust lighting to highlight merchandise and displays per company standard.
  • Pro-actively manage customer needs and exceed expectations by utilizing the U.N.I.Q.L.O. service standard, following the Uniqlo Fundamental Principles and saying the 6 standard phrases.
  • Provide product and brand knowledge to employees and customers.
  • Follow all company policy and procedure & notify management of any infractions
  • Assist management to identify and resolve issues in the store.
  • Support store team to meet and exceed sales goals.
  • Assist with special projects as assigned by management
  • Required Skills and Abilities:
  • Ability to create compelling visual presentations according to company guidelines and brand standards.
  • Ability to drive sales through effective merchandise placement and display.
  • Excellent eye for detail
  • Ability to offer solutions to store specific visual and merchandising challenges using brand standards and HQ direction as a guideline
  • Ability to identify potential visual merchandising opportunities and provide creative solutions.
  • Ability to work within teams and create partnerships
  • Demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple tasks and work with a sense of urgency.

Benefits:

  • We offer competitive compensation for Sales Associates starting at $18.00 / hour along with a clear path to promotion opportunities every 3 months based on individual performance!

  • Career advancement opportunities for driven team members who consistently deliver strong results.

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage

  • 401k plan - 100% match on the first 3% you contribute, 50% on the next 2% you contribute

  • Paid parental leave (Full-Time Employees only)

  • Life insurance

  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance (Full-Time Employees only)

  • HSA/FSA options

  • Employee Assistance Program (Full-Time Employees only)

  • Vacation & Personal Time Off (Full-Time Employees only)

  • Sick & Wellness Time Off

  • 30% Employee Merchandise Discount

  • Commuter benefits

  • ... and more!

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to effectively communicate with customers and store personnel
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time, read computer terminals, push, pull, or move objects of at least 25 pounds
  • Ability to effectively maneuver around sales floor and stockroom by repetitive bending, twisting, stooping, squatting, and climbing

Schedule Requirements:

  • Open ability to work a flexible schedule that meets the business needs, including evenings and weekends

Experience:

  • Minimum one (1) year in retail

The Company is committed to equal pay initiatives and will not ask candidates for their current or past salary.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Fast Retailing does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, age, citizenship, marital or domestic/civil partnership status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or because of any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

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