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Retail Merchandise Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aquent

Merchandise Planner

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$31.80 - $36.55/hr

May 26, 2026 Overview We are seeking a Merchandise Planner II to support end-to-end planning and forecasting for a dynamic retail business within a globally recognized leader in the footwear and ...

Ross Stores

Merchandise Planner

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$98K - $110K/yr

Bring your talents to Ross, our leading off-price retail chain with over 2,200 stores, and a strong ... The Merchandise Planner is responsible for executing the strategic initiatives within their fast ...

Citi Trends

Merchandise Planner

Manhattan, NY · On-site

CITITRENDS is seeking a data-driven, strategic Merchandise Planner who thrives in a fast-paced retail environment and knows how to turn insights into action. This role is critical to driving business ...

Emerging Blue Jobs

Merchandise Planner

New York, NY · On-site

$90/hr

Monitor competitive landscape and retail trends to ensure the assortment remains market-relevant ... planning, merchandise planning or a related retail planning role * NetSuite experience along with ...

Catbird

Merchandise Planner

New York, NY · Hybrid

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 ...

Catbird

Merchandise Planner

New York, NY · On-site

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 ...

Catbird

Merchandise Planner

New York, NY · Hybrid

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 ...

QVC

Merchandise Planner

West Chester, OH · Hybrid

Merchandise Planner QVC GroupWest Chester, Ohio Working at QVC Group means joining a live social ... QVC Group, Inc. is a Fortune 500 company with six leading retail brands - QVC, HSN, and our four ...

Clare V

Merchandise Planner

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Experience in retail, fashion, accessories, or consumer goods industries * Experience with ERP systems, reporting tools, or merchandise planning software * Understanding of merchandising, inventory ...

Hill House Home

Merchandise Planner

New York, NY · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Reporting to the Director of Merchandise Planning, the Merchandise Planner will own financial ... Naturally curious, with a strong interest in retail, consumer products, and the DTC landscape.

Clare V.

Merchandise Planner

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Experience in retail, fashion, accessories, or consumer goods industries * Experience with ERP systems, reporting tools, or merchandise planning software * Understanding of merchandising, inventory ...

Citi Trends

Merchandise Planner

Manhattan, NY · On-site

CITITRENDS is seeking a data-driven, strategic Merchandise Planner who thrives in a fast-paced retail environment and knows how to turn insights into action. This role is critical to driving business ...

Short Story

Merchandise Planner

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$65K - $150K/yr

Short Story is an award winning, technology powered retailer dedicated to petite women 5'4" and ... The Merchandise Planner plays a pivotal role in driving the success of our merchandise assortment ...

The PCA Group

Assistant Merchandise Planner

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$65K - $70K/yr

Known for its presence in forward-thinking retail spaces, BEAUTYSPACE delivers elevated, conscious ... The Assistant Merchandise Planner will be responsible for assisting in the development and ...

Clare V.

Merchandise Planner

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Experience in retail, fashion, accessories, or consumer goods industries * Experience with ERP systems, reporting tools, or merchandise planning software * Understanding of merchandising, inventory ...

Dollar Tree

Merchandise Planner

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

The Merchandise Planner develops, executes and communicates strategic merchandise financial plans ... This should include prior experience in the retail industry. Job Related Skills: Well-developed ...

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All JobsRetail Merchandise Planner Jobs

Retail Merchandise Planner information

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$33K

$76.9K

$111K

How much do retail merchandise planner jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for retail merchandise 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 some common challenges Retail Merchandise Planners face in balancing inventory levels and sales targets?

Retail Merchandise Planners often navigate the delicate balance between maintaining optimal inventory levels and achieving sales targets. A key challenge is accurately forecasting demand for various products, especially in the face of changing consumer trends and seasonal fluctuations. Planners must also coordinate closely with buyers, suppliers, and store managers to ensure timely stock replenishment while minimizing overstock and markdown risks. Effective communication and data analysis skills are essential for making informed decisions that support both profitability and customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Retail Merchandise Planner vs Retail Buyer?

AspectRetail Merchandise PlannerRetail Buyer
Primary FocusForecasting sales, inventory management, and merchandise planningSelecting and purchasing products to meet customer demand
Skills & CertificationsAnalytical skills, inventory management, retail software proficiencyNegotiation, product knowledge, vendor relations
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, collaborating with planning and merchandising teamsStore visits, vendor meetings, purchasing decisions
Industry UsageCommonly used in retail chains, department stores, and e-commerceUsed across retail sectors including apparel, electronics, and specialty stores

While both roles are essential in retail operations, the Retail Merchandise Planner primarily focuses on sales forecasting and inventory management, ensuring the right products are available at the right time. The Retail Buyer concentrates on selecting and purchasing products, building relationships with vendors, and curating merchandise to attract customers. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and hiring needs within retail organizations.

What does a Retail Merchandise Planner do?

A Retail Merchandise Planner is responsible for forecasting, planning, and managing inventory levels to ensure that the right products are available at the right time and in the right quantities. They analyze sales trends, consumer demand, and past performance to create effective merchandise plans that maximize sales and minimize excess stock. Merchandise Planners work closely with buyers, suppliers, and store managers to optimize product assortment, pricing, and stock allocation across different locations. Their main goal is to increase profitability and improve the overall efficiency of the retail supply chain.

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

To thrive as a Retail Merchandise Planner, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in business, finance, or merchandising, often with a relevant degree. Familiarity with inventory management systems, data analysis tools like Excel, and planning software such as Oracle Retail or JDA is typically required. Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities set top performers apart in this role. These skills are vital for optimizing inventory, maximizing sales, and ensuring the right products are available to meet customer demand.
More about Retail Merchandise Planner jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Retail Merchandise Planner jobs? The top employers for Retail Merchandise Planner jobs are:
What states have the most Retail Merchandise Planner jobs? States with the most job openings for Retail Merchandise Planner jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Retail Merchandise Planner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Retail Merchandise Planner jobs are:
Retail Merchandise Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Retail Merchandise Planner job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Full Time, 90% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,893 per year, or $37 per hour.
Merchandise Planner

Merchandise Planner

Aquent

Beaverton, OR • On-site

$31.80 - $36.55/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Placement Type:
Temporary
Salary:
$31.80-36.55 Hourly
W2, hourly, with benefits
Start Date:
May 26, 2026
Overview
We are seeking a Merchandise Planner II to support end-to-end planning and forecasting for a dynamic retail business within a globally recognized leader in the footwear and apparel industry. This role is responsible for driving financial and inventory plans that optimize profitability, align to consumer demand, and support overall business objectives.
Location & Schedule
On-site with work-from-home Fridays
Duration
Approximately 12-month contract
Experience Level
2-4+ years of experience in merchandise planning, assortment planning, or retail financial planning
Bachelor's degree strongly preferred or equivalent experience
What You'll Do
  • Develop seasonal and monthly merchandise plans including sales, margin, and inventory forecasts
  • Manage open-to-buy (OTB) and support in-season optimization through ongoing analysis and adjustments
  • Analyze weekly business performance and identify risks and opportunities to inform decision-making
  • 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
  • Prepare and present financial insights and planning recommendations to stakeholders
  • Contribute to a rolling forecast process to ensure plans remain aligned with business performance and goals

What You Bring
  • Strong expertise in Excel and data analysis
  • Solid understanding of retail math, forecasting, and inventory management
  • Experience managing OTB and merchandise financial plans
  • Ability to work effectively in cross-functional, matrixed environments
  • Strong communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders
  • Comfortable working in fast-paced, ambiguous environments

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience presenting to senior leadership
  • Strong stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration skills
  • Background in apparel, footwear, or large-scale retail environments
  • Experience with financial planning or business analysis

Best fit with role
Candidates who are analytical, detail-oriented, and collaborative, with a strong understanding of retail planning fundamentals. You are comfortable working with data, able to translate insights into action, and can effectively partner across teams to drive business performance.
Why Apply
  • High-impact role influencing product strategy
  • Exposure to senior leadership
  • Strong cross-functional visibility
  • Opportunity to build advanced planning skills

The target hiring compensation range for this role is $31.80 to $36.55/hr. Compensation is based on several factors, including but not limited to education, relevant work experience, relevant certifications, and location
About Aquent Talent:
Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world's biggest brands.
Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium.
Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We're about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.
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Client Description
Global leader in athletic footwear, apparel, and equipment. Our client focuses on innovation, performance, and marketing, partnering with top athletes and teams. The company emphasizes sustainability and digital advancements to enhance the sports experience.

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