Store Planner, Legacy Stores

Barnes & Noble, Inc.; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Discount

Paid Time Off

401(k) with Company Match

Comprehensive Health Benefits

Job summary

Barnes & Noble, Inc. is seeking a Store Planner to maintain and evolve their existing store fleet. This role involves creating accurate floor plans and collaborating with multiple departments to ensure smooth delivery of store updates.

The ideal candidate should have expertise in space planning with a focus in retail, proficiency in AutoCAD, and strong organizational skills. Benefits include comprehensive health options and a competitive salary.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on space planning experience in retail environments.
• 4–6 years of experience working with retail construction or store planning.
• Familiarity with ADA compliance standards.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate floor plans and fixture layouts based on design guidelines.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners on store updates and special projects.
• Maintain documentation for fixture updates and track active projects.

Skills

Proficiency in AutoCAD

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in architecture or Interior Design

Tools

Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project, Outlook)

Job description

Job Summary

Barnes & Noble is the leading book retailer in the United States, with roots dating back to 1873 and a long history of growth through innovation and expansion. Today, under CEO James Daunt and private ownership by Elliott Advisors, Barnes & Noble operates approximately 700 bookstores nationwide, serves over 700 communities across all 50 states, and maintains a robust digital presence through BN.com, NOOK® eBooks and audiobooks, and educational resources such as SparkNotes. The company also includes complementary retail brands such as Paper Source, Books Inc., Tattered Cover, and B. Dalton, further strengthening its market reach. Following a period of revitalization, Barnes & Noble is experiencing strong momentum, with plans to open approximately 60 new stores in 2026, underscoring renewed confidence in physical retail and local bookselling. Combining expansive store networks, curated selections, enhanced in‑store experiences, and growing omnichannel capabilities, Barnes & Noble remains the #1 bookseller in the U.S. and a trusted, evolving partner within the publishing and retail ecosystem.

The Store Planner, Legacy Stores, plays a key role in maintaining and evolving Barnes & Noble’s existing store fleet by delivering accurate, thoughtful, and standard‑driven floor plans. This role focuses on translating established design guidelines, merchandising direction, and operational requirements into clear, executable plans that support store performance and consistency across the estate. The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, highly organized, and comfortable working within defined parameters. This role partners closely with Store Operations, Merchandising, Construction, and Facilities to ensure legacy store updates are planned accurately, communicated clearly, and delivered smoothly.

Location and Classification

Location: NY — New York (Union Square)

Classification: Full-Time

What You Do

• Prepare accurate floor plans, fixture layouts, merchandise plans, and elevations based on Store Design Guidelines
• Develop test fits to identify opportunities and constraints within store footprints
• Ensure plans account for site‑specific requirements, including ADA compliance and operational needs
• Maintain working knowledge of existing fixture systems and legacy store conditions
• Collaborate with cross‑functional partners on store updates, refreshes, and special initiatives
• Support rollout of special projects by ensuring plans are clear, feasible, and aligned with timelines and budgets
• Maintain floor plan tracking and documentation for fixture updates and active projects
• Develop test fits, floor plans, façade design, signage concepts, and design detailing to convey intent to AOR
• Review architectural plans, elevations, and shop drawings for alignment with brand standards from SD through CD phases
• Apply insights from completed projects to improve future planning and execution

Knowledge & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, Interior Design, or a related field, or equivalent space planning experience
• 3+ years of hands‑on space planning experience, preferably in retail environments
• 4–6 years of experience working with retail construction, store planning, or project coordination
• Minimal travel required
• General understanding of retail space planning and store operations
• Proficiency in AutoCAD with the ability to work efficiently and accurately
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project, Outlook)
• High‑level understanding of retail design principles and requirements
• Familiarity with ADA compliance standards
• Knowledge of design trends, materials, and retail fixtures
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced environment with shifting priorities
• Strong problem‑solving skills and adaptability
• High attention to detail with a commitment to quality
• Effective communication skills and ability to collaborate cross‑functionally
• Demonstrates accountability, ownership, and follow‑through
• Ability to interpret data and apply judgment to drive informed, practical decision‑making
• Hybrid role based in New York Headquarters

Compensation and Benefits

An employee in this position can expect a starting rate between $100,000 and $125,000 annually, depending on experience, seniority, geographic location, and other factors permitted by law.

Benefits for those who are scheduled to work less than 20 hours per week include Employee Discount, EAP, and Sick Pay.

For those scheduled to work between 20 and 29.99 hours per week benefits include Employee Discount, EAP, Sick Pay, Paid Time Off including paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Company Paid Holidays, Transit, and 401(k) with Company Match.

For those scheduled to work 30 hours or more benefits include Employee Discount, EAP, Sick Pay, Paid Time Off including paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Company Paid Holidays, 401(k) with Company Match, Comprehensive Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision), Healthcare and Dependent Care Spending Accounts, Healthcare Spending Account, Disability Benefits, Life Insurance, Transit, and Tuition Reimbursement. All benefits provided are in accordance with the terms of the current plan and may be subject to future change. Benefit may vary depending on location/state regulations. More information can be received by the recruiter or Human Resources.