Space Planning & Schematic Analyst

Job Description

Job Description

Who We Are

At C.A. Carlin, we take brands to new heights. We are one of the leading privately held sales agencies in the industry. Thanks to nimble growth and associations with our operating partners, C.A. Fortune and C.A. Ferolie, we have built brand value that is unlike any other in the CPG industry.

What We Do

Established in 1962, we cultivate enduring industry partnerships built on a foundation of integrity and performance. We specialize in synthesizing complex data into actionable insights, which we then translate into strategic programs. Our team is dedicated to executing these initiatives with precision, consistently delivering measurable results that align with our clients' objectives and timelines.

With a national presence supported by over 1,500 associates across multiple offices, our expertise is trusted by a portfolio of iconic global brands.

Role Overview

As a Schematic Analyst at C.A. Carlin, you'll build and maintain retailer-specific planograms that keep our clients' products in the right place, in the right space, on the shelf. Working closely with a Sr. Manager, Business Intelligence, you'll turn shelving principles and syndicated data into accurate, on-time planograms that support the broader Business Intelligence team.

You'll stand out if you're detail-oriented, curious about retail and data, and energized by learning new tools quickly. CPG or retail experience is a plus but not required. We're as interested in your work ethic and eagerness to grow as we are in your résumé.

Location: Hybrid Schedule: 3 days in office. Schaumburg, IL or Eden Prairie, MN.

Salary range $80,000-$95,000. Exact pay will be based on factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, level, geographic location, and business and organizational needs.

At C.A. we're not looking for perfection, just people that want to commit to us and grow their careers long-term. We are on a mission to build better brands for consumers and their families. If you're looking for a sign to apply, here it is!

Key Responsibilities

Planogram Development & Maintenance : Build and maintain retailer-specific planograms and merchandising proposals using Blue Yonder and space planning tools.

Shelving Strategy Execution : Apply established shelving principles, retailer schematic specs, reset cycles, facings, linear footage, POG builds by volume/cadence.

Data-Informed Space Analysis : Create rationale for increasing client assortment on shelf wherever possible by analyzing movement data of all items in an assigned planogram and communicating best practices for both customer and client.

Tools & Asset Maintenance : Maintain and update the image library, item library, and other planogram resources used by the broader Business Intelligence team.

Presentation Support : Assist in building visual account presentation materials that translate planogram data into clear, simple recommendations for client and retailer audiences.

Distribution Tracking : Support the Sr. Manager, Business Intelligence team and Business Sales Managers in tracking distribution priorities and flagging opportunities by retailer.

Quality & Version Control: Maintain organized, accurate planogram versions and documentation, following established naming and version conventions.

Skills

Space Planning Tool Proficiency : Working knowledge of Blue Yonder and space planning software, building toward advanced, independent use.

Syndicated Data Literacy : Growing fluency in Circana/IRI, Nielsen, and SPINS (Satori) to support fact-based space analysis.

Attention to Detail : Executes planogram builds and version updates with strong accuracy and consistency.

Communication : Clearly documents and communicates planogram status, questions, and exceptions to the Sr. Manager and broader team.

Organization & Time Management : Manages multiple planogram requests and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Collaboration : Works effectively with the Sr. Manager, Business Intelligence team, Client, and Business Sales Managers to execute against strategy.

Spatial & Visual Reasoning: Able to translate data and strategy into a clear, functional physical shelf layout.

Excel Proficiency: Comfortable with pivot tables, lookups, and formulas to organize and analyze data efficiently.

Qualifications

Education and/or Experience : Bachelor's degree, plus 1-3 years merchandising or in-store experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Technical Foundation : To perform this job successfully, an individual should have working knowledge of the fundamentals of the Microsoft Office Suite of Programs including by not limited to: Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Working knowledge of computerized Space Management software required.

Analytical Mindset : Comfortable working with data sets and translating them into clear, organized outputs.

CPG Curiosity : Genuine interest in consumer-packaged goods, retail merchandising, or category management.

Perks:

· PTO & Sick Days

· 11 paid company holidays per year

· 1 Floating Holiday

· 2 paid volunteer days per year

· Up to 3 months fully paid parental leave (regardless of gender)

· Medical, dental, and vision

· Paid company life insurance

· 401K with company match

· Summer hours (half day Fridays from Memorial Day thru Labor Day)

· Work from home flexibility

Come As You Are  

C.A. is committed to making our company more inclusive. Diversity fuels our innovation and better connects us to our clients, our colleagues, and our communities. Based on research, we know that women and other marginalized groups tend to apply to roles only when their experience perfectly matches the job description. That said, we encourage you to apply if you meet the majority of qualifications, especially if this role aligns with your career trajectory.