1

Merchandising Internship Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

Merchandising Internship information

See Normal, IL salary details

$11

$17

$19

How much do merchandising internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for merchandising internship in Normal, IL is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Merchandising Internship vs Merchandising Assistant?

AspectMerchandising InternshipMerchandising Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in retail, marketing, or businessEntry-level, some experience or relevant education
Work EnvironmentTemporary, educational, often part-time or summerFull-time, ongoing support role within retail or brand teams
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by retail companies, brands, or department storesRetailers, fashion brands, and consumer goods companies

In summary, a Merchandising Internship is a temporary, educational position ideal for students or recent graduates exploring the field, while a Merchandising Assistant is a full-time role supporting merchandising operations within retail companies. Both roles involve understanding product placement, inventory, and sales strategies, but differ mainly in experience level and duration.

What types of projects or responsibilities can I expect during a Merchandising Internship?

As a Merchandising Intern, you can expect to support the merchandising team with tasks such as analyzing sales trends, assisting in product assortment planning, and preparing reports or presentations for buyers and managers. Interns often help with inventory management, track product performance, and contribute to visual merchandising initiatives both in-store and online. You may also collaborate with marketing, buying, and supply chain teams, gaining exposure to the full product lifecycle and cross-functional teamwork, which are valuable for your future career growth in retail.

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

To thrive as a Merchandising Intern, you need a strong grasp of retail principles, analytical skills, and often a background in business, marketing, or a related field. Familiarity with Excel, inventory management systems, and point-of-sale (POS) software is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and adaptability help interns collaborate with teams and respond to fast-changing market trends. These skills ensure effective product placement, informed decision-making, and valuable contributions to merchandising strategies.

What is a Merchandising Internship?

A Merchandising Internship is a temporary position designed for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in the field of merchandising, usually within the retail or fashion industry. Interns typically assist with product selection, inventory management, visual displays, and analyzing sales trends. The role provides exposure to how products are marketed and sold, and teaches valuable skills such as data analysis, teamwork, and communication. It's a great opportunity to learn about the business side of retail and can serve as a stepping stone to a full-time career in merchandising.
What are popular job titles related to Merchandising Internship jobs in Normal, IL? For Merchandising Internship jobs in Normal, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Merchandising Internship jobs in Normal, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Merchandising Internship jobs in Normal, IL are:
What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Merchandising Internship jobs? Cities near Normal, IL with the most Merchandising Internship job openings:
Infographic showing various Merchandising Internship job openings in Normal, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,475 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Adventure Ted Creative Board Intern Creative Internship (Graphic Design, Apparel, Animation)

Childhood Cancer Society

Clintonia, IL • On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Internship

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

About Childhood Cancer Society

Childhood Cancer Society (CCS) is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting families battling pediatric cancer, providing financial assistance, emotional support, and unforgettable wish grant experiences.

At the heart of our mission is Adventure Ted, our superhero spokes-bear and the central character behind our brand. Adventure Ted represents courage, kindness, and resilience, and serves as the face of our storytelling, campaigns, and creative identity across all initiatives.

We are currently preparing for major initiatives including a high-level charity golf outing and a fundraising dinner event with the Mayor of Saddle River, NJ.

Role Overview

We are assembling a select group of creatives to join the Adventure Ted Creative Board, a performance-driven team responsible for shaping and executing the visual identity of CCS across campaigns, events, and media.

Members will work directly with the Founder and Chief Media Officer, contributing to real-world creative tied to high-visibility initiatives. This is not a traditional internship. This is a hands-on, execution-focused role centered on ownership, quality, and creative impact.

Creative Tracks

Applicants may focus on one primary area:

  • Graphic Design & Branding

    Event materials, social assets, sponsor decks, brand consistency

  • Apparel Design

    Merchandise concepts, wearable branding, and product design

  • Animation / Motion

    Short-form content, storytelling, and character animation for Adventure Ted

Core Responsibilities

  • Design and execute creative assets across print, digital, and event environments

  • Contribute to the visual evolution of the Adventure Ted brand

  • Collaborate with Communications & Partnerships on campaigns and events

  • Work with manufacturing partners to help design items such as clothing, toys, and other products used in fundraising initiatives

  • Participate in structured execution sessions with fast turnaround timelines

  • Maintain high creative standards across all work

What Makes This Different

  • Direct collaboration with the Founder and executive leadership

  • Ownership of real-world creative tied to live events and campaigns

  • Portfolio-building work with real visibility and real-world application

  • A selective, performance-based creative environment

Growth & Advancement Opportunities

  • Top-performing interns may be invited to continue beyond the initial term as Associates within the organization.

  • Advancement is based on execution, consistency, and demonstrated creative ability.

This role is eligible for internship credit in Graphic Design, Media, Animation, Marketing, and related programs, depending on your school’s requirements.

Ideal Candidate

  • Strong design or creative foundation

  • High attention to detail and visual taste

  • Ability to execute quickly without sacrificing quality

  • Self-starter with strong ownership mentality

  • Passionate about meaningful, mission-driven work