What Does a Merchandise Associate Do? (Salary, Job Description, and More)

You probably have no idea what it’s like to be a merchandise associate or retail worker. 

Most people don’t know what the job entails or whether it’s a good fit for them, including potential employees interested in the position. 

So to better equip you, we’re going to take you through a career path of merchandise, who they are, their job descriptions and responsibilities, their skills and educational requirements, and as well as their average salary.

SEE ALSO: What Does a McDonald’s Cashier Do?

Who Are Merchandise Associates?

When you need to buy something, you don’t want to spend hours combing through stores and online websites to find what you’re looking for or pay more than you should. 

You’d instead find precisely what you need quickly and get on with your day. That’s where merchandise associates come in. 

Merchandise associates are the retail professionals who ensure that the products we purchase are clean, organized, safe, and ready for sale to consumers. 

As the face of the store, merchandise associates ensure customers have a good experience when they shop at their location.

What Does a Merchandise Associate Do?

A merchandise associate is responsible for stocking shelves and displays in retail stores. 

They may also be responsible for conducting inventory, pricing items, and cleaning the sales floor. 

Merchandise associates typically work during regular business hours but may be required to work evenings or weekends to accommodate store hours.

Duties of a Merchandise Associate

A Merchandise Associate’s primary responsibility is receiving, unloading, and stocking merchandise. 

They must be able to lift heavy boxes and stand for long periods. 

In addition, they may be responsible for conducting inventory counts, cleaning the sales floor, and helping customers locate items. 

Merchandise Associates typically work in retail settings such as department stores or home improvement stores. 

They usually work full-time hours and earn an hourly wage. However, some employers also offer health insurance and paid time off benefits.

Merchandise Associate Job Description

The Merchandise Associate is responsible for providing excellent customer service while maintaining the sales floor and stockroom. 

They must be able to lift heavy boxes, stand for long periods, and be available to work a flexible schedule. 

The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, basic math skills, and the ability to work independently.

SEE ALSO: What Does An Artist Manager Do? 

Merchandise Associate Skills

The following are the necessary skills required for this career.

Communication Skills  

Merchandise associates must communicate well with customers, co-workers, and supervisors. 

Math Skills

Merchandise associates need basic math skills to calculate prices and discounts. 

Sales Abilities

Merchandise associates must have good sales abilities to sell products effectively. 

Organization Skills

To keep up with the fast-paced environment of a store, merchandise associates need excellent organizational skills.

Education Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for entry-level positions.

However, some employers may prefer candidates who have completed postsecondary business or retail management coursework. 

In specific skills, potential employers will look for candidates with strong customer service skills and the ability to stand for long periods and lift heavy objects. 

Additionally, basic math skills are necessary to accurately calculate inventory levels and pricing markups. 

Regarding personality traits, successful merchandise associates are often patient, detail-oriented, and able to work well under pressure. 

They should also be able to work independently and take the initiative when needed.

Merchandise Associate Salary

The average salary for a Merchandise Associate is $31,500 ($15.14/hour) per year. However, the pay varies depending on the experience and the employer. 

Some merchandising associates earn as little as $19,000 annually, while others can make up to $85,000 annually.

What’s the Difference Between a Merchandise Associate and a Sales Associate?

A merchandise associate is responsible for stocking shelves and keeping the sales floor clean and organized.

In contrast, a sales associate helps customers find their needed products and rings them up at the register. 

A merchandise associate typically makes slightly less than a sales associate.

Merchandise Associate Work Environment

Most merchandise associates work in retail stores. They may work on the sales floor, stockroom, or both. 

In some cases, they may also work in warehouses or distribution centers. The work can be physically demanding, and they may have to lift heavy boxes or stand for long periods. 

The hours can be irregular, and they may have to work weekends and holidays.

Conclusion

A merchandise associate is responsible for a wide range of tasks in a retail setting.

For example, they may be responsible for stocking shelves, organizing displays, and conducting customer service and sales. 

The average salary for a merchandise associate is $15.14 per hour. 

The job outlook for this position is positive, with an expected growth rate of 4% from 2029.