Merchandising Intern – JCPenney at Catalyst in US-TX-Dallas

Summary: Catalyst is a company seeking a Merchandising Intern for JCPenney. The role involves supporting merchandising initiatives, understanding customer needs, and participating in various tasks related to product lifecycle management. Responsibilities: - Participate in meetings with cross-functional partners. Gain an understanding of the role of Merchandising in the product lifecycle - Learn to identify the JCPenney customer - Learn more about the day-to-day tasks accomplished by an Assistant Merchandiser including PO entry, business analysis, store visits, etc - Support merchandising initiatives by incorporating AI-assisted tools for trend analysis, product performance tracking, and inventory insights - Provide research, maintenance, and support for assigned departmental projects and tasks as assigned - Participate and provide feedback in group meetings and discussions if applicable - Learn how to analyze and identify best and slow sellers within a specific department - Understand different roles of the cross-functional team and how they relate to the merchant role - Support Merchant team with sample management and sample prep for milestone meetings - Provide research regarding competition, new opportunities, and product trends via competitive shopping analysis Required Qualifications: - Relevant coursework in merchandising/buying/retail management - Demonstrated interest in artificial intelligence concepts and emerging technologies - Detail oriented individual - Strong communication (written & verbal) and interpersonal skills - Ability to work in a fast-paced environment; strong time management skills - Must be available June 1st - August 7th 2026 for 40/hours per week - Proficiency in MS Office, especially Excel - Interest in analytics retail math - Adhere to regular in-office presence, including engaging in in-person team interaction, meetings and collaboration - Must have authorization to work in the United States - Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards - Ability to maintain regular and timely attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state and local standards and Company's policy - Ability to remain in a stationary position for up to 8 hours per day - Ability to constantly operate a computer, other office equipment and look at a monitor for up to 8 hours per day - Ability to clearly and accurately communicate and exchange information verbally, in writing, or through other means in person, telephonically, or through virtual communication methods - Ability to position self to reach at or below shoulder level Required Skills: Merchandising knowledge, AI-assisted tools, MS Office proficiency Important Skills: Retail math