Associate Category Manager

Job Description Posted Wednesday, July 8, 2026 at 5:00 AM Join the Rockler Woodworking Family! Are you passionate about woodworking or DIY projects? Do you thrive on helping others turn their creative visions into reality? Join the Rockler family, a dynamic and innovative company dedicated to empowering woodworkers and do-it-yourselfers with top-notch products, education, and advice. Why Rockler? Be part of a family‑owned business that cherishes its customers and employees alike. Join an industry leader committed to providing the most innovative products, ideas, and education to woodworking enthusiasts. Embrace a culture that values teamwork, creativity, and a genuine passion for craftsmanship. Summary of Position The Associate Category Manager, in support of a Sr. Merchant, is responsible for delivering the financial performance of their assigned departments and limited product categories. The role is the first step in category ownership and prepares the associate for a more advanced role in Category Management. Major Areas of Accountability Manage all aspects of the product life cycle in selected product categories. Develop merchandising concepts, product and promotional plans that strategically drive category growth while continually evaluating product assortment to ensure customer satisfaction, increase market penetration and competitive advantage. Demonstrate progressive understanding of category management concepts, processes, and procedures through mentoring with Merchandising leadership. Determine standard and promotional product pricing through competitive analysis, industry research, store visits and product pricing strategies. Evaluate industry and competitive trends; define and act on new opportunities. Assist in the negotiations with vendors to secure the lowest price and most favorable terms utilizing incentives like payment terms, rebates, co‑op, allowance, returns and freight discounts. Collaborate with buyers, merchandisers, marketing, creative team and distribution team to ensure the supply chain is managed efficiently and the product is accurately represented in all channels and effectively distributed to our customer. Serve as an industry and customer expert to ensure we stay ahead of our competition and present our customers with the best assortment of products in the marketplace. Monitor and report on key metrics. Miscellaneous additional duties as assigned. We offer a flexible work environment with a strong bias to in‑office collaboration and attendance. Requirements for Position Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required. 1+ years’ experience in category management, merchandising, or buying, preferably in a direct marketing and retail environment. Proficient with MS Office. Strong written and verbal communication, negotiating and vendor management skills. Strong organizational, planning, problem‑solving, and analytical skills. Ability to effectively prioritize multiple tasks and responsibilities. Must be detail‑oriented and self‑driven to maintain high productivity. Excellent follow‑up and follow‑through capabilities. Woodworking experience/background preferred. Local applicants only – hybrid role: 3 days in office per week (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday) and as required otherwise, typically remote Thursday and Friday. Employee Benefits Employee discount pricing from various manufacturers. Paid vacation & holidays. 401(k). Rockler Companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer Committed to Inclusion and Diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. #J-18808-Ljbffr