Associate Buyer

About the Team

It’s no surprise people are passionate about the health and happiness of their pet and our Merchandising (buying) team is no different. When it comes to the products and solutions in our stores, our incredible teams of merchandising associates have everything covered – from head to tail! From keeping up with the top trends to developing new, innovative solutions, our buyers help ensure every pet parent can find exactly what their pet needs n our team and show your love for pets by creating products as special as pets themselves!

Collaborative Work Environment: At Pet Smart, teamwork and connection are core to how we thrive. This role is based at our Phoenix Home Office, with an expectation of working a minimum of four days in the office each week. In a standard work week, associates may work up to one remote “flex day” (with leader approval). Our hybrid approach is designed to foster strong collaboration while also supporting flexibility and individual success.

As an Associate Buyer, you are responsible for setting the merchandise strategy for an assigned category, including assortment selection, pricing, promotions, and line plan development. You will drive vendor selection and negotiate product purchases, terms, and ongoing relationships while staying informed on market and competitor trends.

• Purchase and manage merchandise assortments to maximize sales, margin, and overall business performance.
• Manage product assortment and specifications to identify and address opportunities that drive sales and margin growth.
• Negotiate product costs, terms, and shipping/return agreements with vendors.
• Act as a liaison between merchandising, distribution centers, and stores to track shipments and manage purchase orders.
• Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships to ensure optimal pricing, product quality, and on-time deliveries.
• Identify products for promotional and marketing strategies to achieve sales and margin goals.
• Provide input on product lifecycle management, exit strategies, and inventory aging standards.
• Assist in developing business plans that maximize sales and margin performance based on internal data, market trends, and competitive analysis.
• Participate in recommending, setting, and approving pricing strategies, markdowns, and exit plans to meet margin objectives.
• Collaborate with merchandising partners to manage product line performance, including sales, promotions, markdowns, inventory levels, product quality, and selling costs.

Bachelor’s degree in Merchandising Management, Supply Chain Management, Economics, Business, or a related field or equivalent combination of education and relevant merchandising or buying experience.

• This role requires collaboration, teamwork, and face-to-face interaction with colleagues, leaders, and/or clients.
• Being in the office ensures access to leaders, cross‑functional partners, and resources necessary to make timely decisions and drive results.
• On‑site presence in accordance with our Flex Smart policy supports our culture of innovation, mentorship, and engagement, which is integral to our success in developing the best team.

* This is not intended to be an all‑inclusive, exhaustive list of all essential job functions for this position. Pet Smart retains the right to change or assign other required job duties to this position.

At Pet Smart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed.

We’re more than a workplace, we’re Team Pet Smart. Together, we grow, collaborate, and challenge ourselves to be the best in all we do. Our culture is built on belonging and shared purpose, where every voice and experience matters. Guided by our values, we strive to do what’s right, lead responsibly, and bring our passion for pets to life every day.

Not sure if you meet 100% of the position requirements and whether you should apply? We’d still like to hear from you and encourage you to…