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RETAIL BUYER - MAKER / EDGE AI AND ROBOTICS

Micro Center

West Jefferson, OH

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JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Accounting, Analysis Skills, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Automation, Business Strategy, Category Development, Communication Skills, Competitive Research, Computer Science, Consumer Electronics, Customer Relations, Customer Support/Service, Demand Forecasting/Planning, Detail Oriented, EDGE (Enhanced Data for GSM Evolution), Electronics, Emerging Technology, Financial Planning, Forecasting, Machine Learning, Market Entry Strategy, Market Share, Mathematics, Merchandising, Microcontroller, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Outlook, Multitasking, Negotiation Skills, Online Marketing, Open Source, Presentation/Verbal Skills, Pricing, Product Demonstration, Product Planning, Profit & Loss, Purchasing/Procurement, Retail, Robotics, Supply Chain, Vendor/Supplier Evaluation, Vendor/Supplier Relations, Writing Skills
LOCATION
West Jefferson, OH
POSTED
Today
MICRO CENTER is the nation’s leading computer and electronics big box retailer, offering more than 40,000 of the industry’s best technology products. For over 45 years, our success has been built on unmatched product expertise, a passion for innovation, and a deep commitment to exceptional customer service. At Micro Center, Passion, Energy, and Commitment aren’t just words—they’re how we work, grow, and win together. We take pride in creating long‑term customer relationships and cultivating a workplace where associates are supported, empowered, and valued. About the Role We are seeking a self-motivated, results driven RETAIL BUYER to join our MAKER / EDGE AI & ROBOTICS Buyer team . We are looking for someone who has a passion for Edge Computing & Robotics in the Maker community - hobbyists, DIY engineers, educators, and innovators. As part of the Edge AI & Robotics Team you will be responsible for introducing our customers to all the possibilities in this space. This position is located in our corporate headquarters in Hilliard, a suburb of Columbus, Ohio. Relocation assistance will be provided. What You’ll Do Own the Edge AI & Robotics category , selecting and bringing to market best‑in‑class Maker, DIY electronics, SBCs, sensors, robotics kits, AI accelerators, microcontrollers, and accessories. Build compelling assortments for hobbyists, engineers, educators, and students by balancing emerging technologies with proven, high‑velocity products. Identify, evaluate, and onboard suppliers (established and emerging), assessing product differentiation, scalability, lifecycle viability, and long‑term partnership potential. Lead vendor negotiations covering cost, margin, programs, exclusives, bundles, MAP compliance, rebates, and lifecycle management. Deliver category financial performance aligned to revenue, margin, inventory productivity, turns, and profitability goals. Develop and execute category strategy and go‑to‑market plans , including product roadmaps, assortments, promotions, and launch calendars. Translate technology and Maker trends (Edge AI, robotics platforms, automation, STEM, open‑source hardware) into actionable merchandising and assortment opportunities. Partner cross‑functionally with Marketing, Web, Stores, Finance, Planning, and Supply Chain to support demand forecasting, training, demos, educational content, and customer engagement. Manage demand forecasting and lifecycles , accounting for project‑based buying, seasonality, new‑product adoption, markdown strategy, and end‑of‑life transitions. Monitor competitive landscape , adjusting pricing, assortment, and strategy to maintain differentiation and market leadership. Support innovation initiatives , including private label, kits, exclusive solutions, and new business opportunities aligned with short‑ and long‑term company strategy. What We’re Looking For BS degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or AI/Machine Learning preferred. Ideally, we are seeking 5 years merchant experience as a Buyer in the Consumer Electronics industry with a passion for DIY electronics and Edge AI and Robotics. NOTE: We will also consider someone that is deeply knowledgeable about Edge AI and Robotics in the Maker space with a desire to learn Buying, that we will train to be a best-in-class Buyer. Strong negotiation skills. A proven track record of establishing and maintaining positive relationships with vendors. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Strong analytical and retail math skills. Must be self-starter who is able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously and work with speed and accuracy. Must be detail oriented. Must be a team player. Knowledge of purchasing and forecasting systems required as well as proficiency in MS Office with an emphasis on Excel, Outlook and Teams. Benefits That Support Your Growth and Well‑Being At Micro Center, we’re committed to taking care of our associates so they can thrive—both at work and in life. Our comprehensive benefits package includes: Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage for regular full‑time associates. Competitive Employee Discount , including our Friends & Family Discount Program. Tuition Reimbursement and Education Savings Opportunities to support continuous learning. Paid Time Off for regular associates to rest, recharge, and take care of what matters most. 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match to help you plan for the future. Industry‑Leading Vendor and Company Training to build your skills and product expertise. Clear Career Growth and Advancement Opportunities across the organization. Why Micro Center Our core promise is to take care of our associates and our customers . That commitment has guided our culture, our growth, and our success for more than four decades—and it’s what makes Micro Center a truly exceptional place to build your career. Micro Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. appcast Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.5c143e31-5e48-4549-b638-05792d185386

About the Company

M

Micro Center

About Us

MICRO CENTER is the nation’s leading computer and electronic device retailer! Our technology super store has an industry-leading 40,000+ selection of premier products and the most knowledgeable staff in the business. Founded in 1979 in Columbus, Ohio, we have grown steadily and profitably to a nationwide presence. Our brick-and-mortar stores attract a wide range of customers – from casual to tech-savvy – with highly trained associates who offer technical solutions in an immersive shopping environment. The recipient of many “Best of” and “Reader’s Choice” awards across the country, Micro Center has been ranked by one of the leading consumer advocacy magazines as a top walk-in store to purchase a PC based on selection, service and pricing!

Technically, Your Best Career Move Ever

OUR STORES:
There's nothing small about the way Micro Electronics sets up shop. The company sells computers and consumer electronics through more than 25 Micro Center stores in 16 states and an e-commerce site. The stores, which span up to 60,000 sq. ft., stock more than 40,000 products, including desktop and notebook computers from major makers (such as Apple, HP) and Micro Electronics' own WinBook and PowerSpec brands. Micro Electronics' computers are built by its International Products Sourcing Group (IPSG), which also supplies discounted computer gear.
Micro Center stores cater to tech enthusiasts with "Build Your Own" departments – which allow customers to assemble their computers from scratch – and "Knowledge Bars" up front where customers can speak with technicians. The chain distinguishes itself from its big-box competitors by stocking a wider assortment of products and employing a knowledgeable sales force.

HISTORY SNAPSHOT:
Founded in 1979 in Columbus, Ohio, Micro Center has been extremely successful and profitable for nearly 40 years in an industry that constantly undergoes rapid change. Micro Center locations exceed computer superstores in floor space, product selection and range of services. Micro Center is the store based on knowledge: a technical retailer designed to satisfy the needs of dedicated computer users.
Our stores are arranged so that both novice and experienced computer customers can find what they need, with the right level of assistance, at a cost competitive with any other option. Micro Center is both big and specialized, which means customers can gravitate to the level of assistance they want.

By pioneering its approach to selling personal computers, Micro Center has achieved strong relationships with product manufacturers and an understanding of what its customers need and want. From its early beginnings, Micro Center has grown to over one billion dollars per year in sales, serving customers from coast to coast. By delivering the best technology products and more of them, along with the long dedication to the computer industry, Micro Center will continue to be the technology customer’s One-Stop Shop.

CAREERS AT MICRO CENTER = MEANINGFUL WORK

At Micro Center, we empower our employees to set their sights high and blaze their own trails. This is a place where your future success and growth are truly a result of your own efforts and achievements. Our teams are made up of motivated individuals who work hard to advance their careers. Micro Center's well-traveled promotion paths are examples of how hard work, loyalty, competitive spirit, and unwavering commitment to the customer take you and your career to new places.
  • Associate training: Our associates take over 225,000 courses annually, in addition to monthly vendor onsite training.
  • Leadership Development Program: Our associates, supervisors and managers are offered the opportunity to further develop their skills and grow their careers through our LDP training courses and mentoring.
  • Junior Buyer & Corporate Trainee Program: Our associates have the opportunity to bring their talents to Home Office. Once they have been employed for two or more years in our stores, they can apply for the Micro Center Junior Buyer & Corporate Trainee Program. This program shows Micro Center’s commitment to growing talent from within.
Look at these testimonials from our previous Junior Buyers.

“To say the Junior Buyer program is thorough is an understatement. I’ve learned so much about the company and how it operates. It has truly been an eye opening experience learning how all the departments of the company work together. Going through the program with other Junior Buyers was a great help too. It allowed us to learn from one another and work together on projects throughout the course of the program. It’s been very challenging, but is by far the best career decision I’ve ever made.” – D.F

“The Junior Buyer development program has been an exciting and challenging journey. It has given me the opportunity to see how our company operates at every level and provided me with the insight and tools to be a successful buyer. I’m grateful for the experience and excited to use everything I’ve learned to help our company grow.” – Z.S.


BENEFITS & WELLNESS:
Micro Center offers a balance between personal and professional interests, competitive pay, an employee discount on merchandise, and a high-quality, competitive benefits program that is designed to be flexible in nature and comprehensive in scope. All associates who work on a full-time basis (at least 30 hours per week) are eligible to participate in our cafeteria benefits plan on the first of the month following 60 days of active service. Flexible schedules and tuition reimbursement are great benefits for our student or part-time workers as well! Micro Center is committed to supporting health and wellness goals for our associates by providing resources such as a monthly wellness newsletter, discounted gym memberships, wellness contests and challenges, exercise equipment for personal use, and much more!

OUR LEADERS:
Richard Mershad, President/ CEO
John Noble, Chief Financial Officer
Warren Beneson, Chief Merchandising Officer
Peggy Wolfe, Chief Operating Officer

Together, these senior executives comprise over 100 years of combined retail experience.
COMPANY SIZE
1,500 to 1,999 employees
INDUSTRY
Retail
FOUNDED
1979
WEBSITE
http://www.microcenter.com/