Ensured Application Review Date: July 6th, 2026
Sub Department: Merchandising Operations
Michigan Technological University is an R1 technological research university founded in 1885 in Houghton. Our rural campus is situated just miles from Lake Superior in Michigan's scenic Upper Peninsula and is home to nearly 7,500 students from more than 60 countries around the world. Consistently ranked among the best universities in the country for return on investment, Michigan's flagship technological university offers more than 185 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Research focus areas include defense, health, energy, automotive, environment, and aerospace.
The area's waters, forests, and snowfall support year-round recreation, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, and paddling. The University is an integral part of the region, supported by a friendly and welcoming community that takes pride in being a true college town. We embrace our size, climate, sense of adventure, and originality.
Summary
Michigan Technological University is seeking a Merchandising Coordinator for our Merchandising Operations Department. The Merchandising Coordinator manages the strategic procurement, inventory health, and visual presentation for Merchandising Operations. This role is responsible for the full product lifecycle for apparel and souvenirs-from initial vendor selection and design visualization to the execution of the Open-to-Buy (OTB) process. Acting as a key leader within the department, the Coordinator ensures both retail locations are strategically stocked and visually compelling, while serving as the University Images' point of contact in the absence of the General Manager.
Responsibilities and Essential Duties
Strategic Procurement & Inventory Management
* Execute the Open-to-Buy (OTB) process; conduct regular audits of sales data and stock levels, and assess markdowns as necessary to optimize turnover ratios, minimize deadstock, and support Merchandising Operations financial performance.
* Direct the purchasing of apparel and general merchandise within budgetary limits, selecting and working with vendors, managing lead times ranging from immediate replenishment to long-term seasonal cycles (up to one year).
* Exercise purchasing authority for designated categories; manage purchase orders, P-card reconciliations, and invoice processing with high accuracy.
* Act as the primary liaison for other university departments to create and fulfill special merchandise orders.
* Conduct surveys and market research to identify customer trends and demographic data. Analyze data and evaluate key performance metrics to determine success and shape future purchasing strategies.
Creative Direction & Brand Integrity
* Apply principles of design and color theory to visualize graphics on specific products, ensuring all merchandise aligns with university brand standards.
* Lead the design and execution of in-store displays to drive engagement and highlight promotions and new arrivals.
* Partner with the Merchandising Operations team to provide creative input for website and social media content.
Operational Leadership
* Provide functional supervision for 1-2 full-time staff and 25+ student/temporary employees; assist with scheduling and provide constructive feedback to ensure a high standard of kindness in service.
* Direct receiving, pricing, and distribution of goods between University Images and the Campus Store, particularly for special events like orientation and home games.
* Utilize university systems (Banner, PrismCore, WebFocus, Concur) to manage vendor information, inventory, budget considerations, and P-card reconciliations.
* Commit to learning about continuous improvement strategies and Lean practices and integrating them into daily retail operations. Actively engage in University continuous improvement initiatives.
* Apply safety-related knowledge, skills, and practices to everyday work.
Required Education, Certifications, Licensures
* Associate degree in business, graphic design, or a related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience).
Required Experience
* One (1) or more years of supervisory experience in retail operations, purchasing, inventory management, and/or bookstore administration.
* Experience working with integrated retail, financial, or enterprise systems and databases.
* Demonstrated history of providing excellent customer service
Desirable Education and/or Experience
* Bachelor's degree in business, graphic design, or a related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience).
* Previous experience with Point of Sale (POS) or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems (e.g., PrismPOS, Banner).
* Experience in a college or university bookstore environment.
* Experience training or providing functional direction to student employees.
* Valid U.S. Driver's License and eligibility under University vehicle use requirements.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities
* Demonstrated ability to use advanced features of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software.
* Demonstrated ability in graphic design or visual communications.
* Excellent interpersonal and oral/written communication skills, with the ability to work harmoniously with diverse groups.
* Ability to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays for athletic and university events.
* Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities under strict deadlines.
* Ability to work at any assigned location within the department.
Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and/or Abilities
* Knowledge of collegiate retail trends and licensing... For full info follow application link.
Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
