About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is one of the world's leading food and beverage companies, with a diverse portfolio that includes iconic brands like Pepsi, Gatorade, Lay's, Quaker, and Tropicana. Headquartered in Purchase, New York, PepsiCo operates in over 200 countries, employing more than 300,000 people globally. The company is committed to sustainable growth, innovation, and delivering consumer-pleasing products while fostering positive impacts on communities and the planet. PepsiCo's PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA) division focuses on beverages, driving market leadership through exceptional merchandising and distribution strategies. Joining PepsiCo means becoming part of a legacy of excellence, where your contributions help refresh the world and create moments of joy for millions.

Role Overview

The Merchandiser Servicing Cookeville Area position at PepsiCo in Cookeville, Tennessee, is a hands-on, field-based role perfect for motivated individuals who thrive in dynamic retail environments. Reporting to local management, you'll service large-volume stores such as grocery chains in the Cookeville area, ensuring PepsiCo products are prominently displayed, fully stocked, and attractively presented. This full-time position offers a consistent schedule—either Tuesday-Saturday or Sunday-Thursday—with specific start times and dedicated customer routes. Starting at $19.80 per hour, the role is labor-intensive, involving lifting cases up to 45 pounds, but provides mileage reimbursement for personal vehicle use and opportunities for schedule flexibility as you gain experience. Ideal for those with retail or grocery backgrounds, this self-managed position emphasizes reliability, customer interaction, and operational efficiency.

Why This Role Stands Out

As a PepsiCo Merchandiser, you'll directly impact sales by making products irresistible to shoppers. Watch shelves come alive with vibrant displays, coolers brimming with refreshments, and backrooms organized for seamless restocking. This isn't just a job—it's an entry point to PepsiCo's vast career ecosystem, where top performers advance to supervisory, sales, or distribution roles.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you'll execute core merchandising tasks with precision and enthusiasm. Primary accountabilities include:

• Merchandising store shelving, coolers, and displays with PepsiCo products in assigned accounts to maximize visibility and sales.
• Rotating products in backrooms and on shelves to ensure freshness and compliance with FIFO standards.
• Transporting products from backrooms to shelf locations using equipment like U-boats, hand trucks, and pallet jacks.
• Displaying promotional materials such as signs, banners, and end-cap displays to drive impulse purchases.
• Maintaining backroom stock in neat, orderly condition and communicating any store issues to managers and PepsiCo leadership.
• Building strong customer relationships at the store level through proactive communication and attentiveness to needs.
• Complying with operating procedures, including scan-in/scan-out protocols, designated routes, and service times.
• Delivering exceptional customer service, operating under minimal supervision, and using handheld devices for order input.

Regular, reliable attendance is essential, as is the physical ability to bend, reach, squat, and lift throughout your shift.

Qualifications & Requirements

PepsiCo seeks candidates who meet these basic qualifications:

• 18 years or older.
• Pass the physical capabilities test (if applicable).
• Must have a car or personal transportation to access multi-store locations within assigned shifts.
• Valid U.S. Driver's License and proof of insurance.

Helpful experience includes:

• Working in retail or grocery stores, understanding operations, backrooms, and inventory.
• Moving products safely with equipment like u-boats or dollies.
• Merchandising expertise: filling shelves, building displays, rotating stock, and eliminating out-of-stocks.
• Managing backroom inventory and serving customers effectively.

Post-offer, a background check, drug screening, and verification of education, employment, and driving history are required. PepsiCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer, considering qualified applicants with criminal histories per applicable fair chance laws.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo values its team members with competitive compensation and support:

• Hourly wage of $19.80, equating to approximately $41,184 annually based on standard hours.
• Mileage reimbursement for using your personal vehicle on sales routes.
• Consistent schedules with potential for preferred shifts over time.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off (details provided upon hire).
• Access to PepsiCo's employee discount programs and wellness initiatives.
• Opportunities for overtime and performance-based incentives.

Career Growth

PepsiCo invests in your professional development. Merchandisers often advance to roles like Route Sales Representative, Sales Supervisor, or Operations Manager. With internal training programs, leadership academies, and tuition reimbursement, your career trajectory is supported. Many start here and climb to regional or national positions, leveraging PepsiCo's global network for long-term success.

Why Join Us

Choose PepsiCo for stability, impact, and culture. In Cookeville, TN, you'll join a tight-knit team servicing key local accounts, contributing to community refreshment while building skills for tomorrow. PepsiCo's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion ensures everyone has a seat at the table. Experience a premium employer that prioritizes safety, innovation, and employee well-being—apply now and stock your future with opportunity.

Role FAQs

Q: What is the work schedule?
A: Tuesday-Saturday or Sunday-Thursday, with specific start times and route-based shifts.

Q: Do I need my own vehicle?
A: Yes, with a valid driver's license and insurance; mileage is reimbursed.

Q: Is this a physical job?
A: Yes, involving lifting 20-45 lb cases, bending, and using equipment.

Q: What if I have a criminal record?
A: Qualified applicants are considered per fair chance ordinances and applicable laws.

Q: How do I apply?
A: Submit your application online—watch the Realistic Job Preview Video for a real look at the role.