Merchandising Trainee Program

DICK’S Sporting Goods

Overview

The Merchandising Trainee Program at DICK’S Sporting Goods offers a comprehensive introduction to various facets of the merchandising function. Trainees will gain experience through assignments in:

• Assistant Inventory Planner (Allocations and Replenishment): Develop skills for accurate execution and optimization of systems to ensure optimal product placement.
• Buying: Understand department-level strategy, assortment selection, private brands, and financial alignment.
• Supply Chain: Build foundational knowledge of inventory flow, timing to market, and distribution processes.
• Planning: Enhance financial and business acumen by assessing and reacting to business results.
• Product Development: Learn the processes involved in developing internal brands and products.
• eCommerce: Gain baseline knowledge of Omni-channel analytics, distribution channels, and customer platforms.
• Stores: Understand the consumer base, competitive differentiators, and the impact of corporate actions on field associates.

Skills & Development

• Participation in the Professional Development Series for Merchandising Trainees, including:
• Functional Overviews of various departments.
• Intensive Excel training.
• Creation of an Individual Development Plan.
• Developmental offerings to enhance professional skills and retail knowledge.

Key Program Experiences

• Analyzing multiple data points to drive recommendations for sales, gross margin, and inventory turnover.
• Building collaborative relationships with vendor partners, store teams, and fellow associates.
• Partnering with associates across merchandising, product development, sourcing, eCommerce, supply chain, visual merchandising, marketing, and stores to enhance customer experience.
• Making data-driven recommendations on product assortments for both stores and online.
• Receiving support and formal mentorship from peers and director-level or above associates.
• Establishing a strong business and mentor relationship with Program Managers.
• Interacting with associates across all company levels, including Senior Executives.
• Upon program completion, trainees will be placed as an Assistant Inventory Planner or Assistant Buyer.
• Relocation assistance will be provided for non-local candidates accepting full-time positions at the DICK’S Sporting Goods Corporate Office.

Start Date

• February or June 2027 (determined by graduation date).

Qualifications

• Graduation date of Winter 2026 or Spring 2027, or 1-2 years post-graduation.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Finance, Economics, Marketing, Management, or other related business or retail major from an accredited college or university.
• GPA of 3.2 or better.
• Interest and confidence in working with data and numbers; strong mathematical/quantitative skills are highly preferred.
• Curiosity and desire to learn about consumer and retail trends, including customer demographics, purchasing influencers, and emerging technology.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to independently make data-driven recommendations.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and deadline-oriented environment.
• Willingness to relocate to Pittsburgh, PA.

Virtual Requirements

• Cameras must be on during all virtual interviews.
• AI tools are not permitted to be used by the candidate during any part of the interview process.
• Offers are contingent upon a satisfactory background check, which may include ID verification.