1

Merchandising Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Merchandise Planner's responsibility includes but not limited to achieve sales and gross margin and turn objectives. Develop strategic merchandise plans at a detailed class level, integrating a ...

GameStop is looking for a Merchandise Planner to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will play a critical role in shaping sales strategies, managing inventory flow, and collaborating across ...

The Merchandise Planner will lead inventory planning initiatives, establish forecasting ... Collaborate with the merchandising team to develop and maintain comprehensive sales forecasts ...

The Merchandise Planner will lead inventory planning initiatives, establish forecasting ... Collaborate with the merchandising team to develop and maintain comprehensive sales forecasts ...

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR We are looking for a Business Planner to partner with Direct Merchandise Planning and Direct Consumer teams to analyze and manage business and operation changes, ensuring all ...

Reporting to the Director of Merchandise Planning, the Merchandise Planner will own financial ... Partner closely with Merchandising, Design, Production, E-commerce, and Store Operations to align ...

Merchandise Planner

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Bachelor's Degree and at least 2 years of experience in one or more of the following: retail, merchandising, planning, demand planning, inventory management, allocation, analytics, finance or ...

Merchandise Planner

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$82K - $99K/yr

The Merchandising Planning team is always on top of the latest trends-using data, research, exceptional taste and expert analytical skills to ensure we've got the right product in the right places at ...

Merchandise Planner

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$31.80 - $36.55/hr

Partner cross-functionally with merchandising, planning, marketing, and other key teams to align on strategy and execution * Support inventory planning and management across the product lifecycle

Merchandise Planner

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$82K - $99K/yr

The Merchandising Planning team is always on top of the latest trends--using data, research, exceptional taste and expert analytical skills to ensure we've got the right product in the right places ...

Merchandise Planner

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$86K - $138K/yr

Bachelor's Degree and at least 2 years of experience in one or more of the following: retail, merchandising, planning, demand planning, inventory management, allocation, analytics, finance or ...

The Merchandise Planner will gather necessary data and analysis to create efficient inventory plans ... Provide hindsight analysis and partner with merchandising on future product positioning and ...

The Merchandise Planner will gather necessary data and analysis to create efficient inventory plans ... Provide hindsight analysis and partner with merchandising on future product positioning and ...

Merchandise Planner

New York, NY · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Reporting to the Director of Merchandise Planning, the Merchandise Planner will own financial ... Partner closely with Merchandising, Design, Production, E-commerce, and Store Operations to align ...

You'll collaborate closely with merchandising, retail, finance and operations teams to ensure the ... Planning, Projections: analyze sales, stock levels, margin and other key metrics. Own end to end ...

You'll collaborate closely with merchandising, retail, finance and operations teams to ensure the ... Planning, Projections: analyze sales, stock levels, margin and other key metrics. Own end to end ...

The Merchandise Planner is responsible for executing the strategic initiatives within their fast-growing division; while ensuring the accuracy and consistency of all plans, revisions and projects ...

Merchandise Planner

New York, NY · On-site

$98K - $110K/yr

The Merchandise Planner is responsible for executing the strategic initiatives within their fast-growing division; while ensuring the accuracy and consistency of all plans, revisions and projects ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Merchandising Planner information

See salary details

$33K

$76.9K

$111K

How much do merchandising planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 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 merchandise planner do?

A merchandise planner is responsible for analyzing sales data, forecasting demand, and developing inventory plans 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 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 responsibilities within retail or consumer goods companies.

What skills do you need to be a merchandise planner?

A merchandise planner needs strong analytical skills to interpret sales data and forecast demand, along with proficiency in Excel and inventory management software. Good communication and organizational skills are essential for coordinating with vendors and internal teams to ensure product availability and sales targets are met.

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.

How much do merchandise planners make in the US?

Merchandising planners in the US typically earn an average salary of around $65,000 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 are often important for 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,893 per year, or $37 per hour.
Merchandise Planner

Merchandise Planner

Big Lots

Columbus, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Big Lots rating

5.0

Company rating: 5.0 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

600th of 719 rated retailers


Job description

Variety Wholesalers, Inc./Big Lots is looking for a Merchandise Planner to join our team! 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 and gross margin and turn objectives. Develop strategic merchandise plans at a detailed class level, integrating a holistic approach, applying performance trends and lost sales opportunities to achieve the optimal merchandise assortment.
Qualifying individuals should be highly motivated for business success with an excellent math aptitude and dynamic attributes to perform within a Buying team unit. Must have the ability to act as a Business Manager with extensive interaction with Merchandise Managers, Buyers and Merchandise Analysts.
Position Requirements / Recommended Skills
• Bachelor's Degree in Business related field.
• 3 - 5 years merchandise planning experience in a retail environment.
• Possess Microsoft Office skill set/awareness: Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Access.
• Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Team player with a positive mental attitude; self-motivated, and energetic.
• Excellent retail math skills.
• Strong analytic skills and abstract thought process.
• Excellent systematic aptitude.
• Process oriented.
• Highly motivated for business success.
Company Benefits
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, 401k & Match, PTO--Holidays, Vacation, & Sick.
Salary commensurate with experience.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

Education:
  • Bachelor's (Required)

Work Location: In person
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Big Lots employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Big Lots logo

About Big Lots

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Big Lots, headquartered in Westerville, Ohio, US, is a distinctive and diversified retail corporation. Operating in the retail industry, the company's core businesses involve offering an extensive range of merchandise such as furniture, seasonal items, consumables, soft home products, electronics, and accessories. Big Lots was founded in 1967 under the name Consolidated Stores Corporation until it was officially renamed Big Lots Inc. in 2001. The corporation's mission focuses on making a difference in the communities they serve by delivering surprising values every day. In line with this, Big Lots takes pride in their continued commitment to responsible retailing which includes their steadfast embrace of their corporate social responsibility.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Westerville, OH, US

Year founded

1967