Merchandiser Knoxville/Lenoir City/Loudon at PepsiCo

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is a global leader in the food and beverage industry, proudly serving billions of customers worldwide with iconic brands like Pepsi, Gatorade, Lay's, and Quaker. Headquartered in Purchase, New York, PepsiCo operates in over 200 countries, employing more than 300,000 dedicated professionals. Our mission is to deliver refreshing products while fostering sustainable practices and community impact. In the U.S., PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA) drives growth through innovative merchandising and distribution strategies. Joining PepsiCo means becoming part of a dynamic team that values innovation, diversity, and career advancement. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we champion inclusion for all, including females, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Role Overview

The Merchandiser position in Knoxville, Lenoir City, Loudon, Sweetwater, and Athens, Tennessee, offers a hands-on opportunity to ensure PepsiCo products shine on store shelves. This full-time role pays $21.50 per hour (approximately $44,720 - $49,200 annually with buffer) and follows a consistent Thursday-Monday schedule. You'll service large-volume grocery stores, handling labor-intensive tasks like stocking shelves, rotating products, building displays, and organizing backrooms. This self-managed role requires physical stamina—lifting 20-45 pound cases, bending, reaching, and using equipment like U-boats, hand trucks, and pallet jacks. Interact daily with store personnel to build relationships and deliver exceptional customer service. Ideal for retail enthusiasts seeking stable hours and growth in the beverage industry.

Key Responsibilities

As a PepsiCo Merchandiser, your day involves executing precise merchandising strategies to maximize product visibility and sales. Primary duties include:

• Merchandising store shelving, coolers, and displays with PepsiCo products in assigned accounts.
• Rotating products in backrooms and on shelves to ensure freshness and eliminate out-of-date items.
• Transporting products from backroom 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 neat and orderly backroom stock while communicating store issues to managers.
• Building strong customer relationships at the store level through attentive service and rapport.
• Complying with operating procedures, including scan-in/scan-out and designated routes.
• Operating handheld devices to input orders and service accounts during management-set times.

This role demands regular, reliable attendance and the ability to work under minimal supervision in a fast-paced retail environment.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed as a PepsiCo Merchandiser, 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 access to a personal vehicle for multi-store routes (mileage reimbursed).

Helpful experience includes retail or grocery store work, product movement with equipment, merchandising shelves and displays, managing backroom inventory, and serving customers. Post-offer, a background check, drug screening, and verification of education, employment, and driving history are required. PepsiCo considers qualified applicants with criminal histories per Fair Chance Ordinances and applicable laws, ensuring a safe work environment for field-based roles.

Physical Demands

This labor-intensive position involves lifting, loading, pushing, pulling, bending, reaching, squatting, and standing for extended periods in store settings.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo values its team with competitive compensation and perks tailored for field roles:

• $21.50 hourly pay with potential for schedule flexibility over time.
• Mileage reimbursement for using your personal vehicle on sales routes.
• Consistent Thurs-Mon schedule for work-life balance.
• Opportunities for career advancement within PBNA and PepsiCo.
• Comprehensive equal opportunity policies, including fair chance hiring.
• Supportive culture focused on safety, training, and customer success.

Watch our Merchandiser Realistic Job Preview Video for an inside look.

Career Growth

PepsiCo invests in employee development, offering paths from Merchandiser to roles like Route Sales, Supervisor, or Sales Representative. Gain hands-on experience in merchandising, inventory management, and customer relations—skills transferable across our global operations. With performance-based opportunities, many start here and advance to leadership in supply chain or sales. Access training programs, mentorship, and internal mobility to build a rewarding career in the food and beverage sector.

Why Join Us

Choose PepsiCo for stability, impact, and excitement. Service vibrant Tennessee communities while representing world-class brands. Enjoy a self-managed role with clear expectations, reliable pay, and reimbursement perks. Our commitment to diversity, sustainability, and innovation sets us apart. Knoxville-area residents: elevate your retail experience with a company that prioritizes your growth and safety. Apply today to stock success on shelves and in your career.

Role FAQs

What is the schedule?

Thursday-Monday with specific start times; opportunities for varied schedules with tenure.

Do I need my own car?

Yes, with valid license and insurance; mileage reimbursed.

Is experience required?

Helpful but not mandatory—training provided for motivated candidates.

What about background checks?

Conditional offer requires background, drug screen, and history verification; fair chance considered.

How physical is the job?

Very—lifting 20-45 lbs, using equipment, and store navigation.