About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is one of the world's leading food and beverage companies, with an iconic portfolio that includes Pepsi, Gatorade, Lay's, Quaker, and many more beloved brands. Headquartered in Purchase, New York, PepsiCo operates globally, delivering over $86 billion in revenue annually and employing more than 300,000 people worldwide. In the USA, PepsiCo's PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA) division powers the distribution and merchandising of refreshing beverages to stores nationwide. As a Merchandiser in Columbia, Missouri, you'll play a vital role in ensuring these products are perfectly positioned for consumers, driving sales and customer satisfaction. PepsiCo is committed to sustainable growth, innovation, and fostering an inclusive workplace where every employee can thrive.

Role Overview

The Merchandiser position at PepsiCo in Columbia, Missouri, is a dynamic, hands-on role perfect for individuals who enjoy staying active, interacting with store teams, and making products visually appealing. Reporting to local management, you'll service large-volume grocery stores and other retail accounts on a consistent schedule. This full-time position pays $20.55 per hour (approximately $42,744 annually based on standard hours) and offers mileage reimbursement for those using a personal vehicle to visit multiple locations. Expect a labor-intensive job involving lifting cases from 20-45 pounds, bending, reaching, and using equipment like U-boats, hand trucks, and pallet jacks. It's an entry point into PepsiCo's supply chain with opportunities to advance into supervisory or route sales roles.

Day-to-Day Impact

Merchandisers are the face of PepsiCo in stores, ensuring shelves are stocked, coolers are organized, and displays pop with promotional materials. You'll build rapport with store personnel, address issues promptly, and maintain FIFO (first-in, first-out) rotation to keep products fresh. This self-managed role requires reliable attendance, use of handheld devices for orders, and adherence to scan-in/scan-out procedures.

Key Responsibilities

In this Merchandiser role, your primary accountabilities include:

• Merchandising store shelving, coolers, and displays with PepsiCo products in assigned accounts to maximize visibility and sales.
• Rotating products in the backroom and on shelves to ensure freshness and eliminate out-of-date items.
• Transporting products from storage to sales floor using equipment such as U-boats, hand trucks, and pallet jacks.
• Displaying promotional materials like signs and banners to drive impulse buys.
• Maintaining backroom stock in neat, orderly condition and organizing inventory.
• Communicating store issues to managers and PepsiCo leadership while building strong customer relationships at the store level.
• Delivering exceptional customer service through attentiveness, rapport-building, and problem-solving.
• Operating under minimal supervision, using handheld devices to input orders and following designated routes.

These tasks ensure stores are always PepsiCo-ready, contributing directly to regional sales goals.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed as a PepsiCo Merchandiser in Columbia, MO, candidates must meet these basic qualifications:

• Be 18 years or older.
• Pass the physical capabilities test (lifting 20-45 lbs repeatedly).
• Possess a valid U.S. Driver's License and proof of insurance.
• Have a car or personal transportation for multi-store routes.

Helpful experience includes retail or grocery work (stocking shelves, managing backroom inventory), merchandising products, moving store products safely, and serving customers. Post-offer, expect a background check, drug screening, and verification of driving history. PepsiCo is an equal opportunity employer, considering qualified applicants with criminal histories per Fair Chance laws, FCRA, and local ordinances like those in San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo values its Merchandisers with competitive compensation and support:

• $20.55 hourly pay with potential for schedule flexibility over time.
• Mileage reimbursement for personal vehicle use on sales routes.
• Consistent start times and routes for work-life balance.
• Comprehensive training, including a Realistic Job Preview Video.
• Opportunities for career progression within PBNA.
• Inclusive culture protecting against discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability.

Career Growth

Starting as a Merchandiser opens doors at PepsiCo. High performers advance to Bulk Merchandiser, Route Sales Representative, or supervisory roles. PepsiCo invests in employee development through training programs, leadership tracks, and internal mobility. Many current managers began in field positions like this, gaining hands-on experience in sales, operations, and customer engagement. In Columbia, Missouri, join a supportive team focused on mutual success and long-term retention.

Why Join Us

Choose PepsiCo for stability, impact, and excitement. Work with world-class brands, collaborate with retail partners, and contribute to a company prioritizing sustainability (e.g., PepsiCo Positive goals for water, packaging, and climate). In Columbia, enjoy a vibrant community near the University of Missouri, with outdoor activities and Midwest charm. PepsiCo offers a premium work environment with fair pay, recognition, and a path to thrive professionally. All qualified applicants receive equal consideration—apply now to stock success!

Role FAQs

Q: Is this a full-time position? Yes, full-time with a consistent schedule.

Q: Do I need my own car? Yes, with valid license and insurance; mileage reimbursed.

Q: What physical demands are there? Lifting 20-45 lbs, bending, pushing/pulling—pass the capabilities test.

Q: Are criminal backgrounds considered? Yes, per fair chance laws and FCRA.

Q: How do I apply? Submit via PepsiCo careers site; watch the Realistic Job Preview Video first.