Junior Merchandise Assistant

Company Description

Job Description

Junior Merchandise Assistant

This is a contract position
This is a hybrid position in Framingham, MA

About this Position
The Merchandise Assistant provides administrative and clerical support to 2–4 Buyers and an AVP, Merchandise Manager, while assisting with purchase orders, vendor communication, and departmental operations. This role is critical in maintaining smooth communication with 50+ vendors, ensuring accurate and timely processing of domestic and import purchase orders, and supporting the overall efficiency of the buying team. The Merchandise Assistant will also coordinate travel, manage vendor samples, and perform special projects as assigned.

Job Responsibilities

Purchase Orders

• Prepare and write domestic and import purchase orders; enter and review electronic POs via the Buyer Worksheet application.

• Revise POs daily, following the purchase order change process, and secure all required approvals.

• Partner with Planning & Allocation to ensure timely and accurate PO entry.

• Review and ensure accuracy of ASN/EDI PO information; follow up with vendors to resolve discrepancies.

• Monitor weekly late lists, follow up with vendors, and revise or cancel POs as needed.

• Assist in shipment follow-up, problem-solving for over/under shipments, and vendor chargebacks/cost discrepancies.

Vendor Communication

• Communicate daily with vendors regarding POs, allocations, problem-solving, and inquiries.

• Serve as the first point of contact for vendor calls, including PO-related issues, appointments, and allocation inquiries.

• Maintain vendor database by soliciting accurate contact information and updating records.

• Build and sustain strong vendor relationships to support business operations.

General Office Duties, Vendor Samples & Special Projects

• Prepare and organize weekly reports, including Buyer Control Files and On Order Inquiries.

• Coordinate all travel arrangements for Buyers and the AVP, including itineraries and scheduling market appointments.

• Organize and set up vendor and agent visits in the home office.

• Assist with the pre-production and production sample process, including tracking, organizing, and displaying samples for buyer approval.

• Maintain the sample room, request vendor samples for strategy meetings, and ensure timely return of items.

• Support organizational tasks such as filing, maintaining binders, and addressing pre-ticketed merchandise issues.

• Comply with Sarbanes Oxley requirements by securing appropriate signatures on POs.

• Perform special projects such as pulling selling reports, managing weekly spend grids, and creating spreadsheets.

Job Skills/Requirements

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and ability to learn new systems quickly.

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with all levels of management and external vendors.

• Flexibility, initiative, and resourcefulness in handling varied duties.

Pay Range

• Pay Rate: $23/HR

YUPRO Placement is the nation’s leading skills-first placement firm placing and promoting historically overlooked talent into permanent hire, apprenticeship, and contract job assignments. We represent clients who support skills-first inclusive hiring practices. YUPRO Placement is an equal opportunity employer.