Executive Training Program - Assistant Buyer

Academy Sports + Outdoors; Katy (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Academy Sports + Outdoors is seeking a merchandising analyst/associate to rotate through core merchandising functions from concept to customer. You’ll gain hands-on experience in advertising, pricing, inventory management, vendor communication, and financial analysis.

You will learn item setup, online assortments, MAP pricing, line reviews, market research, and more, while supporting leaders with insights that influence strategy and strengthen product selection and marketing effectiveness.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; Master’s degree a plus.
• 0–2 years of related business experience
• Strong communication skills and ability to work with partners at all levels
• Ability to stay organized, adapt quickly, and manage multiple priorities
• Comfort analyzing data and presenting findings to leaders
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel
• Self-motivation, curiosity, and a strong sense of urgency
• Customer-oriented mindset that supports strategic decision-making
• A team-first attitude; while your core duties are your priority, you’re happy to step in wherever you’re needed

Responsibilities

• Rotate through core merchandising functions to learn how products move from concept to customer. Each day brings hands‑on experience with advertising, pricing, inventory management, vendor communication, and financial analysis.
• Take a deep‑dive into item setup, online assortments, MAP pricing, line reviews, market research, and more. As you grow, you’ll support leaders by presenting insights and recommendations that influence strategy.
• Your work helps strengthen product selection, marketing effectiveness, and overall departmental performance.
• Partner with Buyers, Planners, Replenishment Analysts, Forecast Analysts, Omnichannel Merchandisers, and Space Planners.
• This collaborative group exposes you to every step of merchandising and gives you a complete view of how the business operates.
• Your role also builds relationships with vendors and cross‑functional teams in marketing, supply chain, and store operations.
• Each interaction helps you learn how different groups work together to deliver a seamless experience for customers.
• Bring your energy, your ideas, and your love for sports and the outdoors.

Skills

Communication

Customer Focus

Adaptability

Decision Making

Planning

Organization

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Master’s degree a plus

Job description

Who We Are

At Academy Sports + Outdoors our vision is to be the best sports + outdoors retailer in the country — but what truly sets us apart is our people. We’re a passionate, purpose-driven team that’s as committed to each other as we are to our customers.

We’ve spent over 80 years building a culture that puts people first. We believe in creating opportunities for growth, fostering meaningful connections, and supporting every Team Member’s journey. What fuels us? Our belief in the power of fun.

Here, you won’t just help customers gear up for their next adventure — you’ll launch one of your own. Whether you’re starting out or leveling up, Academy is a place where fun can’t lose!

What You Will Work On

Rotate through core merchandising functions to learn how products move from concept to customer. Each day brings hands‑on experience with advertising, pricing, inventory management, vendor communication, and financial analysis. Along the way, you’ll take what you learn and apply it to real business decisions.

Take a deep‑dive into item setup, online assortments, MAP pricing, line reviews, market research, and more. As you grow, you’ll support leaders by presenting insights and recommendations that influence strategy. Your work helps strengthen product selection, marketing effectiveness, and overall departmental performance.

Who You Will Work With

Partner with Buyers, Planners, Replenishment Analysts, Forecast Analysts, Omnichannel Merchandisers, and Space Planners. This collaborative group exposes you to every step of merchandising and gives you a complete view of how the business operates.

Your role also builds relationships with vendors and cross‑functional teams in marketing, supply chain, and store operations. Each interaction helps you learn how different groups work together to deliver a seamless experience for customers.

What You Bring

Bring your energy, your ideas, and your love for sports and the outdoors.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; Master’s degree a plus

• 0–2 years of related business experience

• Strong communication skills and ability to work with partners at all levels

• Ability to stay organized, adapt quickly, and manage multiple priorities

• Comfort analyzing data and presenting findings to leaders

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel

• Self‑motivation, curiosity, and a strong sense of urgency

• Customer‑oriented mindset that supports strategic decision‑making

• A team-first attitude; while your core duties are your priority, you’re happy to step in wherever you’re needed

Work Style and Physical Requirements

• Up to 10% travel, including occasional overnights

• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

• Ability to learn and follow company policies, procedures, and safety rules

• Regular in-office attendance is required

• Acceptable level of hearing and vision to perform job duties

• Ability to adhere to company policies and professional standards

Key Skills

Communication, Customer Focus, Adaptability, Decision Making, Planning, Organization

Equal Employment Opportunity

Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate with regard to employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by law.