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Merchandising Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary Manages a subset of a merchandising category and selects items for product line review in partnership with merchants. Optimizes assortment using data and financial projections. Works with ...

Job Summary Manages a subset of a merchandising category and selects items for product line review in partnership with merchants. Optimizes assortment using data and financial projections. Works with ...

New

EC Merchandising Planner

New York, NY · On-site

$75K - $88K/yr

We are looking for a Junior Merchandise Planner to join the Merchandise Planning Team. This position is responsible for meeting or exceeding sales and profit objectives working in partnership with E ...

We are looking for a Junior Merchandise Planner to join the Merchandise Planning Team. This position is responsible for meeting or exceeding sales and profit objectives working in partnership with E ...

Adecco Staffing is assisting a well known sportswear company in sourcing for a Merchandising Planner! Ideal candidates have strong excel skills and comfortable in office 5 days a week. This is a 5-6 ...

Adecco Staffing is assisting a well known sportswear company in sourcing for a Merchandising Planner! Ideal candidates have strong excel skills and comfortable in office 5 days a week. This is a 5-6 ...

The Merchandise Planner plays a key role in driving omni-channel performance for the DTC business by developing and executing category-, subcategory-, and item-level financial plans that support ...

Sr Merchandising Planner

Redmond, WA · On-site

$94K - $150K/yr

The Merchandise Planner plays a key role in driving omni-channel performance for the DTC business by developing and executing category-, subcategory-, and item-level financial plans that support ...

Adecco Staffing is assisting a well known sportswear company in sourcing for a Merchandising Planner! Ideal candidates have strong excel skills and comfortable in office 5 days a week. This is a 5-6 ...

Experience in merchandising, category management, procurement, supply chain, inventory planning, product management, business analytics, sales operations, marketing analytics, or a related business ...

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 ...

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Merchandising Planner information

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$33K

$76.9K

$111K

How much do merchandising planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for merchandising planner in the United States is $76,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $89,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are merchandising planners?

Merchandising planners are professionals who analyze sales data and market trends to determine the right assortment and quantity of products for retail stores. They work to ensure the right products are available at the right time and place, maximizing sales and minimizing excess inventory. Merchandising planners collaborate closely with buyers, store managers, and supply chain teams to create effective merchandise plans and strategies. Their role is critical in driving profitability and meeting customer demand.

What does a merchandiser planner do?

A merchandising planner is responsible for analyzing sales data, forecasting demand, and developing inventory plans to ensure product availability and optimize sales. They collaborate with buying, marketing, and supply chain teams, often using tools like Excel or specialized planning software. Their work involves balancing stock levels with sales trends to maximize profitability.

What is the highest paying merchandiser job?

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

How to become a merchandise planner?

To become a merchandise planner, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or a related field. Gaining experience in retail, inventory management, or data analysis, along with proficiency in planning software like Excel or specialized tools, is also important for success in this role.

How does a Merchandising Planner typically collaborate with buying and inventory teams to optimize product availability?

Merchandising Planners work closely with buying and inventory teams to ensure that the right products are available at the right time and in the right quantities. Regular communication and data sharing are essential, as Planners analyze sales trends and forecasts to advise buyers on purchase quantities and timing. They also coordinate with inventory teams to monitor stock levels, identify potential shortages or excesses, and develop action plans to address these issues. This collaboration helps balance inventory investment while maximizing sales and minimizing markdowns.

What is the difference between Merchandising Planner vs Buying Analyst?

AspectMerchandising PlannerBuying Analyst
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or related fieldBachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or related field
Work EnvironmentCorporate retail or apparel companies, planning departmentsRetail stores, purchasing departments, or merchandising teams
Primary FocusDeveloping sales forecasts, inventory plans, and assortment strategiesAnalyzing sales data, selecting products, and negotiating with suppliers
Common UsageUsed in retail and apparel industries to optimize inventoryUsed in retail to ensure product availability and profitability

The main difference is that Merchandising Planners focus on creating sales and inventory plans to optimize stock levels, while Buying Analysts concentrate on selecting products and negotiating with suppliers. Both roles require analytical skills and industry knowledge, but their core responsibilities differ in strategic planning versus product procurement.

What is a merchandise planner's salary?

A merchandise planner's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Entry-level planners may earn less, while experienced professionals with advanced skills in inventory management and data analysis can earn higher compensation.

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

To thrive as a Merchandising Planner, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of retail math, and experience in inventory management, often supported by a relevant degree in business or merchandising. Familiarity with planning software like Oracle Retail, Excel, and ERP systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and adapting to market changes. These skills are vital for optimizing product assortments, managing stock levels, and driving sales performance in a dynamic retail environment.
More about Merchandising Planner jobs
What cities are hiring for Merchandising Planner jobs? Cities with the most Merchandising Planner job openings:
What states have the most Merchandising Planner jobs? States with the most job openings for Merchandising Planner jobs include:
Infographic showing various Merchandising Planner job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,893 per year, or $37 per hour.

Merchandising Planner

Books A Million Holding Company

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Description
The Merchandise Planner role is part of the Merchandising department and supports the optimization of inventory and sales performance across all stores. This position works closely with Buyers and cross-functional partners to ensure effective product allocation and execution of merchandising strategies. The role is based in a fast-paced retail environment and focuses on maximizing sales potential through data-driven planning and inventory management. The Planner plays a key role in aligning inventory levels with business objectives and store needs.
Role Responsibilities
Inventory Planning & Allocation
  • Allocate and distribute products at the SKU level based on Buyer intent and allocation strategies
  • Manage inventory levels across stores to optimize sales and minimize excess or shortages
  • Review and optimize product distributions for all purchases, including new title buys

Sales Forecasting & Performance Analysis
  • Participate in monthly forecasting of sales, receipts, and inventory levels
  • Analyze sales and inventory data to support planning decisions
  • Provide detailed insights to Buyers on SKU and store-level performance

Merchandising Execution
  • Ensure presentation standards are met across stores for promotional, advertised, and placement items
  • Support execution of merchandising strategies to maximize sales potential

Store Planning & Support
  • Plan and execute inventory distribution for new store openings
  • Ensure stores are stocked appropriately to meet sales and profit targets

Collaboration & General Support
  • Work closely with Buyers and merchandising team members to align on planning objectives
  • Perform additional duties as assigned

Role Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Business or a related field
  • Experience in retail or merchandising environment

Preferred Qualifications
  • 3+ years of merchandise planning or related experience
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
  • Strong attention to detail and business planning capabilities

Work Environment & Expectations
  • Ability to sit at a desk or computer for extended periods
  • Frequent use of hands for typing and repetitive motions
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs with or without assistance
  • Ability to stand, walk, stoop, or crouch as needed
  • Ability to communicate effectively using speech, sight, and sound
The Perks
At Books-A-Million, we believe in taking care of our employees. As part of the team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
Competitive Compensation: We offer competitive pay and performance-based incentives.
Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to keep you healthy.
Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy generous PTO and paid holidays.
Employee Discounts: Get discounts on books and other products across our stores.
Retirement Savings: Build your future with our 401(k) plan and company contributions.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement
Books-A-Million is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. We celebrate and embrace differences, and we strive to create an environment where every individual feels valued and empowered. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their background or personal characteristics. We are dedicated to creating a culture of respect, equity, and opportunity for all employees, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.