Merchandise Specialist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Merchandise Specialist roles can qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship when the position requires a bachelor's degree in a directly related field like marketing, business, or supply chain management. Employers in retail, wholesale, and consumer goods regularly file LCAs for these roles, making verified sponsorship history a practical filter when targeting your job search.
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Job Overview
The Merchandise Specialist serves as the lead for Komatsu’s North America merchandise program and leads execution of its strategic direction. The role chairs the North America Merchandise Governance Committee; directs merchandise planning, stocking orders and cross-functional projects; leads consolidated sales and performance reporting across company stores, online channels, dealers and distributors; and oversees program governance, vendor management, e-commerce and brand compliance. The role has overall management responsibility for the South Harbor and Chicago headquarters company stores, including potential dotted-line leadership of the employees assigned to staff each location. The role uses data and stakeholder insights to improve program performance, strengthen brand consistency and support merchandise needs across North America.
Key Job Responsibilities
- Lead the North America Merchandise Governance Committee and regional program governance. Chair the committee, establish its agenda and decision-making cadence, align cross-functional stakeholders, document decisions and actions, and establish regional merchandise standards, policies and processes that support Komatsu facilities, company stores, online channels, employees, dealers, distributors and customers.
- Lead development and execution of the North America merchandise strategy. Translate the approved strategic direction into annual and long-term plans, priorities, project roadmaps and measurable outcomes for branded merchandise, promotional items, employee merchandise, company stores, online channels, dealer programs and regional initiatives. Coordinate execution across internal stakeholders and vendors and identify opportunities to improve product selection, customer experience, operational consistency and financial performance.
- Lead North America merchandise sales reporting, analytics and performance measurement. Develop and maintain consolidated monthly, quarterly and annual reporting across company stores, the online store, dealers, distributors and other merchandise channels, including sales, purchases, inventory, profitability, product performance and purchasing trends. Establish consistent reporting definitions and cadence, validate data with channel owners and translate results into recommendations for assortment planning, promotions, inventory investment and program improvements.
- Manage the strategic relationship with Komatsu’s primary merchandise vendor and other supplementary vendors. Oversee vendor performance, pricing, service levels, product development, e-commerce support and program execution. Partner with the vendor to establish priorities, resolve issues and identify cost, service and process improvements.
- Oversee merchandise development and brand compliance. Provide strategic direction and approvals for merchandise, promotional items, giveaways and gifts across North America. Ensure products comply with Komatsu brand standards, including logo use, colors, design quality and intended application.
- Provide overall management of the South Harbor and Chicago headquarters company stores. Own store strategy, day-to-day operating standards, product assortment, purchasing, replenishment, inventory, financial performance, promotions, reporting, customer experience and merchandising standards for both locations. Lead the creation and project management of initial stocking and replenishment orders, including demand planning, product selection, quantities, budgets, approvals, production schedules, delivery milestones and issue resolution. Provide functional direction, daily priorities, training, performance feedback and operational oversight to the employees staffing each store through a potential dotted-line reporting relationship, while coordinating with their direct managers on staffing and performance matters.
Qualifications/Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, communications, retail merchandising or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience.
- 4+ years of experience in merchandise program management, retail operations, marketing operations, e-commerce or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience managing merchandise planning, product assortments, promotional programs, ordering and inventory.
- Strong analytical skills with experience developing reports, analyzing sales and inventory data, identifying trends and translating findings into business recommendations.
- Experience developing and managing project plans, budgets, forecasts, invoices, timelines and multiple concurrent priorities.
- Demonstrated ability to manage vendor relationships, establish expectations, evaluate performance, resolve issues and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare recommendations, present data, facilitate cross-functional meetings and communicate effectively with internal teams, leadership, vendors, dealers and distributors.
- Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to work independently, meet short deadlines and maintain quality in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to build relationships, influence decisions and coordinate work across teams without formal authority.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint is required. Experience with inventory management, point-of-sale, e-commerce or data visualization systems is preferred.
- Experience supporting company stores, pop-up retail operations, trade shows or event merchandise programs is preferred.
- Detail-oriented, proactive and resourceful with strong judgment and problem-solving skills.
Company Benefits
Komatsu provides an extensive and robust employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members. We embrace a positive and empowering employee experience with a culture that prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Health benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA, wellness programs, etc.
- 401k and/or employee savings programs
- Employee time off (vacation and designated holidays)
- Employee and family assistance programs
- Disability benefits
- Life insurance
- Employee learning and development programs
Diversity & Inclusion Commitment
At Komatsu, we come from diverse backgrounds, with unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions. We are committed to creating a workforce that is reflective of the communities we work and live in. We believe that our people are part of our shared purpose. Connected by our core values of ambition, perseverance, collaboration and authenticity, we are committed to continually advancing in our support of diversity and inclusion. United, we are on a journey towards a sustainable future that creates value together.
Company Information
Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more than 140 countries. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Since the company’s founding in 1921, Komatsu has been committed to supporting individuals and communities through job training, skills development and giving back. As a Komatsu employee, you will be encouraged to grow alongside our global company, contributing to a more sustainable future for all. If you are looking for a company that values your talent and potential, join Komatsu to be a part of something big and help advance modern society.
EEO Statement
Komatsu is an Equal Opportunity Workplace and an Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Join Komatsu and Be Part of Something Big!
Job Overview
The Merchandise Specialist serves as the lead for Komatsu’s North America merchandise program and leads execution of its strategic direction. The role chairs the North America Merchandise Governance Committee; directs merchandise planning, stocking orders and cross-functional projects; leads consolidated sales and performance reporting across company stores, online channels, dealers and distributors; and oversees program governance, vendor management, e-commerce and brand compliance. The role has overall management responsibility for the South Harbor and Chicago headquarters company stores, including potential dotted-line leadership of the employees assigned to staff each location. The role uses data and stakeholder insights to improve program performance, strengthen brand consistency and support merchandise needs across North America.
Key Job Responsibilities
- Lead the North America Merchandise Governance Committee and regional program governance. Chair the committee, establish its agenda and decision-making cadence, align cross-functional stakeholders, document decisions and actions, and establish regional merchandise standards, policies and processes that support Komatsu facilities, company stores, online channels, employees, dealers, distributors and customers.
- Lead development and execution of the North America merchandise strategy. Translate the approved strategic direction into annual and long-term plans, priorities, project roadmaps and measurable outcomes for branded merchandise, promotional items, employee merchandise, company stores, online channels, dealer programs and regional initiatives. Coordinate execution across internal stakeholders and vendors and identify opportunities to improve product selection, customer experience, operational consistency and financial performance.
- Lead North America merchandise sales reporting, analytics and performance measurement. Develop and maintain consolidated monthly, quarterly and annual reporting across company stores, the online store, dealers, distributors and other merchandise channels, including sales, purchases, inventory, profitability, product performance and purchasing trends. Establish consistent reporting definitions and cadence, validate data with channel owners and translate results into recommendations for assortment planning, promotions, inventory investment and program improvements.
- Manage the strategic relationship with Komatsu’s primary merchandise vendor and other supplementary vendors. Oversee vendor performance, pricing, service levels, product development, e-commerce support and program execution. Partner with the vendor to establish priorities, resolve issues and identify cost, service and process improvements.
- Oversee merchandise development and brand compliance. Provide strategic direction and approvals for merchandise, promotional items, giveaways and gifts across North America. Ensure products comply with Komatsu brand standards, including logo use, colors, design quality and intended application.
- Provide overall management of the South Harbor and Chicago headquarters company stores. Own store strategy, day-to-day operating standards, product assortment, purchasing, replenishment, inventory, financial performance, promotions, reporting, customer experience and merchandising standards for both locations. Lead the creation and project management of initial stocking and replenishment orders, including demand planning, product selection, quantities, budgets, approvals, production schedules, delivery milestones and issue resolution. Provide functional direction, daily priorities, training, performance feedback and operational oversight to the employees staffing each store through a potential dotted-line reporting relationship, while coordinating with their direct managers on staffing and performance matters.
Qualifications/Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, communications, retail merchandising or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience.
- 4+ years of experience in merchandise program management, retail operations, marketing operations, e-commerce or a related field.
- Demonstrated experience managing merchandise planning, product assortments, promotional programs, ordering and inventory.
- Strong analytical skills with experience developing reports, analyzing sales and inventory data, identifying trends and translating findings into business recommendations.
- Experience developing and managing project plans, budgets, forecasts, invoices, timelines and multiple concurrent priorities.
- Demonstrated ability to manage vendor relationships, establish expectations, evaluate performance, resolve issues and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare recommendations, present data, facilitate cross-functional meetings and communicate effectively with internal teams, leadership, vendors, dealers and distributors.
- Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to work independently, meet short deadlines and maintain quality in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to build relationships, influence decisions and coordinate work across teams without formal authority.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint is required. Experience with inventory management, point-of-sale, e-commerce or data visualization systems is preferred.
- Experience supporting company stores, pop-up retail operations, trade shows or event merchandise programs is preferred.
- Detail-oriented, proactive and resourceful with strong judgment and problem-solving skills.
Company Benefits
Komatsu provides an extensive and robust employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members. We embrace a positive and empowering employee experience with a culture that prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Health benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA, wellness programs, etc.
- 401k and/or employee savings programs
- Employee time off (vacation and designated holidays)
- Employee and family assistance programs
- Disability benefits
- Life insurance
- Employee learning and development programs
Diversity & Inclusion Commitment
At Komatsu, we come from diverse backgrounds, with unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions. We are committed to creating a workforce that is reflective of the communities we work and live in. We believe that our people are part of our shared purpose. Connected by our core values of ambition, perseverance, collaboration and authenticity, we are committed to continually advancing in our support of diversity and inclusion. United, we are on a journey towards a sustainable future that creates value together.
Company Information
Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more than 140 countries. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Since the company’s founding in 1921, Komatsu has been committed to supporting individuals and communities through job training, skills development and giving back. As a Komatsu employee, you will be encouraged to grow alongside our global company, contributing to a more sustainable future for all. If you are looking for a company that values your talent and potential, join Komatsu to be a part of something big and help advance modern society.
EEO Statement
Komatsu is an Equal Opportunity Workplace and an Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
See all Merchandise Specialist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Merchandise Specialist roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Merchandise Specialist
Frame your degree for specialty occupation
Merchandise Specialist roles only qualify for H-1B sponsorship when the job requires a specific bachelor's degree. Tailor your resume to show how your degree in marketing, supply chain, or business directly applies to the merchandising functions in the job description.
Use OFLC Wage Search to benchmark offers
Before accepting an offer, look up the prevailing wage for Merchandise Specialist roles in that metro area using the OFLC Wage Search. Your offered salary must meet the LCA-certified wage level, and knowing the number protects you from offers that won't pass DOL review.
Target retailers with active LCA filing history
Use Migrate Mate to identify employers with verified LCA sponsorship history for merchandise and buying roles. Retail and consumer goods companies that have filed before are far more likely to sponsor again than employers navigating the process for the first time.
Distinguish buying from merchandising on your resume
Many Merchandise Specialist postings blur the line between inventory planning, visual merchandising, and buying. Clarify which functions you've performed, since USCIS evaluates whether the specific duties require a degree, not just the job title.
Ask about timing before the offer stage
H-1B petitions are subject to an annual cap and lottery with selection rules that have changed recently. If your OPT or status expires before October 1, ask the employer early whether they can accommodate a cap-gap period or pursue a cap-exempt filing route.
Prepare a degree equivalency letter proactively
If your merchandising or business degree is from outside the U.S., get a credential evaluation completed before interviews start. USCIS requires the foreign degree to be equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's, and having the evaluation ready speeds the employer's LCA and I-129 preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Merchandise Specialist role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B sponsorship?
It depends on how the employer defines the role. If the job description requires a specific bachelor's degree in marketing, business, supply chain, or a related field, it can qualify as a specialty occupation under USCIS rules. Generic roles where any degree is accepted regardless of field are harder to defend. Employers with prior LCA filings for similar titles have already established this argument with DOL.
Which visa types are realistic for Merchandise Specialist roles?
H-1B is the most common path for employer-sponsored work authorization in this role. F-1 students can work as Merchandise Specialists during OPT or STEM OPT if the role directly relates to their degree. TN visa is not applicable since Merchandise Specialist is not on the USMCA profession list. Green card sponsorship through EB-3 is possible but requires the employer to complete PERM labor certification first.
How do I find employers who actively sponsor Merchandise Specialist roles?
Migrate Mate lists employers with verified LCA sponsorship history, searchable by role and location. This is the most direct way to identify retail, wholesale, and consumer goods companies that have already filed for merchandise-related positions, rather than applying broadly and asking about sponsorship late in the process.
Does the type of retail or consumer goods company affect sponsorship likelihood?
Yes. Large national retailers and wholesale distributors with dedicated HR and legal teams are more equipped to manage LCA filings and I-129 petitions than small boutique retailers. Companies in categories like apparel, electronics, and home goods that require analytical merchandising skills tied to a degree tend to have stronger specialty occupation arguments. Check O*NET for the occupation's typical degree requirements to understand how USCIS is likely to evaluate the role.
What documents should I prepare before asking an employer to sponsor my H-1B?
Have your degree transcripts, a credential evaluation if your degree is foreign, and a detailed description of your job duties ready before the conversation. Employers need to file an LCA with DOL before USCIS sees the I-129 petition, and both filings require precise documentation of your qualifications and the role's degree requirements. Having these materials organized speeds the employer's process and signals that sponsorship won't create unexpected delays.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Merchandise Specialist jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.