RETAIL BUYER - MAKER / EDGE AI AND ROBOTICS

Job Description

Job Description

MICRO CENTER is the nation’s leading computer and electronics big box retailer, offering more than 40,000 top technology products. For over 45 years, our success has been driven by unmatched expertise, a passion for innovation, and a steadfast commitment to exceptional customer service.

Joining Micro Center means more than working in retail—it’s an opportunity to be at the forefront of fast-growing tech, including edge AI, advanced 3D printing, robotics, and emerging maker solutions shaping the future.

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. Our teams play a hands-on role in bringing complex and cutting-edge solutions to life for our customers, making technology approachable and impactful every day.

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.

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