Visual Merchandiser

Harper Group; New York (NY); On-site; USD 55,000 - 83,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading retail organization is looking for an experienced Freelance Visual Merchandiser based in New York. The role requires 10–15+ years of experience in visual merchandising, particularly in the gift and accessory sectors. Responsibilities include designing compelling displays for tradeshows and maintaining brand presentation standards. The ideal candidate must be an independent thinker with a strong aesthetic sense and the ability to work on-site. If you have a passion for visual storytelling and can manage physical tasks, we encourage you to apply.

Qualifications

• 10–15+ years of proven visual merchandising experience.
• Strong independent thinker capable of owning execution with minimal oversight.
• Exceptional aesthetic sensibility and an advanced understanding of display principles.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• On-site availability for pre-show set-ups.
• Able to lift 50 lbs and handle display components.
• Portfolio showing past visual merchandising work, especially gifts/accessories.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute visually compelling displays that reflect brand identity.
• Utilize lighting and props to enhance the customer experience.
• Maintain visual standards consistently across installations.
• Execute merchandising aligned with seasonal campaigns.
• Stay current with retail design trends and consumer preferences.
• Collaborate with teams to drive engagement at tradeshows.

Skills

Visual merchandising experience

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Creativity

Physical stamina

Tool familiarity

Portfolio

Tools

Power tools

Hand tools

Job description

Location: New York, NY
Position Type: Freelance / Contract
Industry: Gift, Accessory & Specialty Retail
Experience Level: Senior (10–15+ years)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced, creative, and highly independent Freelance Visual Merchandiser with deep expertise in the gift and accessory merchandising space. This role is ideal for a seasoned professional who can take ownership of execution at tradeshows, drive engagement through compelling presentation, and elevate brand experience. Local candidates only — on‑site presence and brand familiarity are essential.

Upcoming Project Dates

• July 29 – August 1

Key Responsibilities

• Design & Execution
• Implement visually compelling displays (product groupings, seasonal themes) that reflect brand identity and maximize sales.
• Utilize lighting, props, signage, fixtures, and layout strategies to enhance the customer experience and guide purchasing behavior.
• Maintain visual standards consistently across installations.
• Strategic Merchandising
• Execute merchandising aligned with seasonal campaigns and business goals.
• Stay current with retail design trends and consumer preferences in gifts, accessories and lifestyle merchandising.

Required Qualifications

• 10–15+ years of proven visual merchandising experience, ideally within the gift, accessory, lifestyle, or specialty retail sectors.
• Strong independent thinker capable of owning execution with minimal oversight.
• Exceptional aesthetic sensibility, attention to detail, and an advanced understanding of display principles and consumer psychology.
• Excellent communication and collaboration.
• Comfortable working on‑site during pre‑show set‑ups; ability to lift at least 50 lbs / move display components and process inventory when necessary.
• Knowledge of using power tools, hand tools, and comfortable with using ladders.
• Extended standing and physical aspects of the job (heavy lifting at times).
• Portfolio demonstrating past work in visual merchandising, especially within gift/accessory displays preferred.

What We’re Looking For

• Thinks creatively and strategically in a fast‑paced environment.
• Makes decisions with confidence.
• Has a deep passion for visual storytelling and an eye for compelling wholesale/tradeshow presentations.