About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is one of the world's leading food and beverage companies, with an iconic portfolio that includes beloved brands like Pepsi, Gatorade, Lay's, Quaker, and Tropicana. Headquartered in Purchase, New York, PepsiCo operates globally, delivering innovative products that bring joy to consumers every day. In the U.S., PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA) drives growth through exceptional merchandising, distribution, and customer partnerships. With a commitment to sustainability, diversity, and innovation, PepsiCo employs over 300,000 people worldwide, fostering a culture of performance and purpose. Joining PepsiCo means becoming part of a dynamic team that shapes the future of snacking and beverages.

Role Overview

The Merchandiser position at PepsiCo in Smyrna, Tennessee, focuses on servicing high-volume stores north of Nashville, including areas like Ashland City, Springfield, and Clarksville. This hands-on, field-based role is perfect for motivated individuals who thrive in fast-paced retail environments. As a Merchandiser, you'll ensure PepsiCo products are prominently displayed, fully stocked, and attractively presented to drive sales and customer satisfaction. This labor-intensive position requires physical stamina, reliable transportation, and a customer-focused mindset. With a consistent schedule and opportunities for schedule flexibility over time, this role offers a rewarding entry into the food and beverage industry at a Fortune 500 company.

Daily Impact in the Community

Merchandisers are the face of PepsiCo in local stores, interacting directly with store personnel to maintain optimal product availability. You'll play a key role in executing merchandising strategies that boost brand visibility and sales in grocery and convenience stores.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you'll handle a variety of tasks to keep stores stocked and appealing:

• Merchandise store shelving, coolers, and displays with PepsiCo products in assigned accounts.
• Rotate products in backrooms and on shelves to ensure freshness and eliminate out-of-date items.
• Transport products from storage to sales floor using equipment like U-boats, hand trucks, and pallet jacks.
• Display promotional materials such as signs and banners to highlight special offers.
• Maintain backroom stock in neat, orderly condition and communicate any store issues to managers and PepsiCo leadership.
• Build strong relationships at the store level while delivering top-tier customer service.
• Operate under minimal supervision, using handheld devices to input orders and follow designated routes.
• Comply with all operating procedures, including scan-in/scan-out protocols and scheduled service times.

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 pounds per case, bending, reaching, squatting).
• Possess a valid U.S. Driver's License and proof of insurance.
• Have access to a personal vehicle for multi-store routes (mileage reimbursement provided).

Helpful experience includes:

• Retail or grocery store work, understanding backroom operations and inventory.
• Moving products safely with equipment like u-boats or dollies.
• Merchandising skills such as building displays, stocking shelves, and managing stockrooms.
• Customer service experience, including handling complaints and meeting needs.

This role involves a pre-employment background check, drug screening, and verification of driving history for safety. PepsiCo is committed to fair chance hiring, considering qualified applicants with criminal histories in line with applicable laws like the Fair Chance Ordinances.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo values its employees and offers competitive perks tailored to field roles:

• Mileage Reimbursement: Get compensated for using your personal vehicle on sales routes.
• Consistent Scheduling: Reliable start times with opportunities to adjust schedules as you gain experience.
• Physical & Professional Development: Training on safe lifting techniques and merchandising best practices.
• Inclusive Workplace: Equal opportunity employer prioritizing diversity in race, gender, veteran status, disability, and more.
• Career Support: Access to EEO resources, pay transparency, and growth paths within PBNA.

Career Growth

Starting as a Merchandiser opens doors to advancement at PepsiCo. Many team members progress to roles like Route Sales Representative, Sales District Leader, or Operations Management. PepsiCo invests in employee development through training programs, leadership opportunities, and internal mobility. With PBNA's focus on high-performers, you'll gain skills in sales, inventory management, and customer relations that are transferable across the industry. Long-term, PepsiCo's global scale provides pathways to corporate roles in marketing, supply chain, or innovation.

Realistic Job Preview

Watch PepsiCo's Merchandiser Realistic Job Preview Video (linked in original postings) to see a day in the life, including physical demands and route realities.

Why Join Us

PepsiCo stands out as an employer by combining iconic brands with meaningful work. In Smyrna, TN, you'll contribute to local communities while enjoying the stability of a major corporation. Our self-managed roles build independence and trust, and our commitment to safety ensures you're equipped for success. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, PepsiCo champions inclusivity, offering fair consideration regardless of background. Join a team that's refreshing the world—one shelf at a time.

Role FAQs

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

Q: What physical demands should I expect?
A: Lifting 20-45 lb cases, pushing/pulling, bending, and squatting in a labor-intensive environment.

Q: Do I need my own car?
A: Yes, with valid license and insurance; mileage reimbursement is provided.

Q: Are there advancement opportunities?
A: Absolutely—many Merchandisers move up to sales and management roles.

Q: How does PepsiCo handle background checks?
A: We conduct reviews post-conditional offer, considering fair chance laws for qualified applicants.

This SEO-optimized overview highlights why the Merchandiser role at PepsiCo in Smyrna, TN, is a prime opportunity for retail enthusiasts seeking stability and growth in the food and beverage sector.