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Associate Merchant Jobs in Columbus, OH (NOW HIRING)

The Associate Merchant balances an understanding of sales performance, market trends, and customer insights to build commercially viable assortments. They partner closely with Planning, Design ...

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The Associate Merchant balances an understanding of sales performance, market trends, and customer insights to build commercially viable assortments. They partner closely with Planning, Design ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Merchandise Associate

Hilliard, OH · On-site

$13 - $13.50/hr

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Merchandise Associate

Reynoldsburg, OH · On-site

$13.50 - $14/hr

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Merchandise Associate

Reynoldsburg, OH · On-site

$13 - $13.50/hr

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Merchandise Associate

Hilliard, OH · On-site

$13 - $13.50/hr

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

Merchandise Associate

Reynoldsburg, OH · On-site

$13 - $13.50/hr

Adheres to all operational, merchandise, and loss prevention standards. May be cross-trained to ... Associate discount; EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care ...

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Associate Merchant information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$13

$23

$39

How much do associate merchant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate merchant in Columbus, OH is $23.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $33.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

An Associate Merchant role typically does not pay $10,000 a month without significant experience, skills in negotiation, and industry knowledge. High earnings in retail or e-commerce management may be possible with extensive expertise, strong networks, and performance-based bonuses, but such salaries are uncommon without formal education or specialized training.

What is an associate merchant at Walmart?

An associate merchant at Walmart is a professional responsible for selecting, sourcing, and managing product inventory to meet customer demand. They analyze sales data, negotiate with suppliers, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure product availability and profitability.

What does a merchant associate do?

A merchant associate supports retail or online sales operations by assisting with inventory management, customer service, and sales transactions. They often work in a team environment, use point-of-sale systems, and may help with visual merchandising and stock replenishment.

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

To thrive as an Associate Merchant, you need a solid understanding of retail math, merchandising strategies, and inventory management, often supported by a bachelor's degree in business, merchandising, or a related field. Familiarity with merchandising software, POS systems, and data analytics tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, negotiation, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively with vendors and cross-functional teams. These competencies are crucial for optimizing product assortments, driving sales performance, and ensuring smooth product flow in a competitive retail environment.

What are Associate Merchants?

Associate Merchants are entry- to mid-level professionals who assist in the planning, selection, and purchasing of products for retail stores or online platforms. They work closely with buyers, vendors, and other teams to analyze sales trends, manage inventory, and help develop merchandising strategies. Their responsibilities often include monitoring product performance, preparing sales reports, and supporting the overall merchandising process to maximize profitability and customer satisfaction.

How does an Associate Merchant typically collaborate with buyers and vendors to ensure product assortment meets customer needs?

As an Associate Merchant, you will work closely with buyers to analyze sales data, identify market trends, and recommend product assortments that align with customer preferences. Collaboration with vendors is frequent, often involving negotiations on pricing, product specifications, and delivery schedules to secure the best terms. This role requires strong communication and analytical skills to balance the needs of customers, the goals of the business, and the capabilities of suppliers. Regular meetings and cross-functional teamwork are essential to ensure product selections are competitive and profitable.

What is the difference between Associate Merchant vs Buyer?

AspectAssociate MerchantBuyer
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in business, marketing, or related field; some experience in retail or e-commerceSimilar educational background; often requires experience in procurement or retail
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, collaborating with marketing, product teams, and suppliersOffice or retail environment, focusing on vendor negotiations and inventory management
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in retail, e-commerce, and consumer goods companiesWidely used in retail, wholesale, and manufacturing sectors

The main difference is that an Associate Merchant typically supports product selection, marketing, and sales strategies, while a Buyer focuses on purchasing, vendor negotiations, and inventory management. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but their core responsibilities differ within the procurement and merchandising process.

How much does an associate merchant make at Walmart?

An associate merchant at Walmart typically earns an average salary of around $70,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience and location. The role involves managing product categories, analyzing sales data, and collaborating with suppliers to optimize inventory and sales performance.
What are the most commonly searched types of Merchant jobs in Columbus, OH? The most popular types of Merchant jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Merchant jobs in Columbus, OH? For Associate Merchant jobs in Columbus, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Merchant jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Merchant jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Associate Merchant jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Associate Merchant job openings:

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Overview
About PHOENIX
PHOENIX Retail, LLC is a retail platform operating the Express and Bonobos brands worldwide. Express is a multichannel apparel brand dedicated to a design philosophy rooted in modern, confident and effortless style whether dressing for work, everyday or special occasions. Bonobos is a menswear brand known for being pioneers of exceptional fit and a personalized, innovative retail model. Customers can experience our brands in over 400 Express retail and Express Factory Outlet stores, 50 Bonobos Guideshops, and online at www.express.com and www.bonobos.com.
About Express
Express is a multichannel apparel brand dedicated to creating confidence and inspiring self-expression. Since its launch in 1980, the brand has embraced a design philosophy rooted in modern, confident and effortless style. Whether dressing for work, everyday or special occasions, Express ensures you look and feel your best, wherever life takes you.
The Company operates over 400 retail and outlet stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, the express.com online store and the Express mobile app.
Responsibilities
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Associate Merchant supports in the creation and execution of product assortment strategies while working cross-functionally to achieve the financial goals of the division and the company. The Associate Merchant balances an understanding of sales performance, market trends, and customer insights to build commercially viable assortments. They partner closely with Planning, Design, Production, and other teams to ensure that products align with brand objectives and financial targets. In-season, they are responsible for analyzing performance, identifying opportunities, and managing risks, contributing to both top and bottom-line growth.
KEY REPONSIBILITIES
  • Collaborate to develop and execute seasonal assortments that align with financial goals, customer expectations, and market trends.
  • Analyze sales performance and market trends, identifying growth opportunities and risks, and recommending actionable strategies to improve sales and manage inventory.
  • Own the day-to-day operational functions, including order management, sample coordination, pricing updates, and system maintenance.
  • Conduct competitive market research, analyzing assortments, pricing, and promotions to inform product development and pricing strategies.
  • Work closely with Planning and Design teams to ensure the product assortment reflects key product attributes and meets financial targets.
  • Support cross-functional teams, such as Production, Marketing, and Visual Merchandising, to ensure timely product launches and alignment with brand objectives.
  • Present product assortment in key meetings, such as investment reviews, with clear product stories to gain cross-functional and leadership alignment.
  • Act as the subject matter expert in the category, staying informed of emerging trends and customer insights to help drive future product development.
  • Manage in-season markdowns and inventory tracking to optimize sales performance and reduce excess inventory.
  • Support the development of new product assortments, including roadmaps, style selection, and product launches.
  • Collaborate with Marketing to ensure product is accurately represented in all channels, including digital platforms.
  • Contribute to cross-functional discussions to ensure product delays and launch timing are communicated effectively to all stakeholders.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's Degree, preferably in business, retail merchandising, or fashion merchandising.
  • 3-5 years of experience in product merchandise buying, with demonstrated success in managing a product category.
  • Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to interpret data and drive actionable decisions.
  • Acute understanding of brand positioning, customer insights, and fashion trends.
  • Ability to collaborate across functions and build strong working relationships.
  • Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
  • Strong presentation and communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Proficiency in Google applications and retail management systems.

CRITICAL SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES
  • Exceptional ability to analyze data and translate insights into actionable strategies.
  • Proven ability to influence cross-functional partners and senior leadership.
  • Strong commercial and brand acumen, with a deep understanding of fashion trends and customer behavior.
  • Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and manage through conflict.
  • Strong leadership capabilities, with the potential to develop and mentor junior team members
  • Bachelor's Degree, preferably in business, retail merchandising, or fashion merchandising.
  • 3-5 years of experience in product merchandise buying, with demonstrated success in managing a product category.
  • Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to interpret data and drive actionable decisions.
  • Acute understanding of brand positioning, customer insights, and fashion trends.
  • Ability to collaborate across functions and build strong working relationships.
  • Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
  • Strong presentation and communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Proficiency in Google applications and retail management systems.

Closing
If you would like to know more about the California Consumer Privacy Act click here.
An equal opportunity employer, PHOENIX does not discriminate in recruiting, hiring or any other terms and conditions of employment hiring on the basis of any federal, state, or locally protected characteristic. PHOENIX only hires individuals authorized for employment in the United States. PHOENIX is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you need an accommodation to search and apply for a job position due to a disability, please call 1-800-964-9793 and say 'Associate Relations' or send an e-mail to AssociateRelations@Express.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.
Notification to Agencies: Please note that PHOENIX does not accept unsolicited resumes or calls from third-party recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Master Service Agreement and approval from HR to submit resumes for a specific requisition, PHOENIX will not consider or approve payment to any third-parties for hires made.