Title:  Merchandising Intern - Summer 2026 (New York, NY)

JOB DESCRIPTION

Get to Know the Role

As a Merchandising Intern at AEO, Inc. you will be partnered with a Merchant in either AE or Aerie and spend 10 weeks learning what it takes to create, edit and produce the assortment that ends up in stores. Merchants act as the hub of the wheel and project manage an assortment from initial concept, through design, onto production and ultimately into our customers’ shopping bags. This role requires not only a passion for retail and trend, but also a very strong analytical and business acumen. If you love trends, but have a passion for business, this is the role for you.

What You’ll Do

Assist in preparing daily sales recaps and analyze performance trends to inform business strategies Conduct competitor analysis and comp shopping to identify product and market trends Gain exposure to the business recap process and learn how to craft clear, data-driven trend stories Support sample trafficking using internal systems, check-ins, and coordination with relevant teams Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams to gather a holistic view of the business Present milestone projects and final intern project with insights to Merchandising leadership Attend and contribute to classes, team meetings, connecting learnings to real-world applications

Internship Program Overview

On-the-Job training with assignments guided by an individual Mentor Classroom learning  Individual and group projects incorporating both product and financials Roundtables with top level executives  Bi-weekly self-evaluations to understand progress throughout program  Pre-planned events in New York to explore the city that AEO loves to call home! Opportunity for full-time offer in Assistant Merchant Training Program upon successful completion

What You Bring
*Applicants must complete a project and pass an Advanced Retail Math Test during the interview process.

Rising Senior at a 4 year college or university, pursuing a Business Related Degree  Minimum 3.0 GPA required Passion for retail and knowledge of the AEO Inc. family of brands Understanding of fashion trends and how they relate to the AE/aerie customer Strong business acumen gained through classes, internships or prior work experience Excellent written & verbal communication, presentation and interpersonal skills Highly organized with the ability to prioritize and problem solve in a fast-paced work environment Demonstrated collaborative skills and team-oriented mindset Self-starter with critical attention to detail, deadlines and reporting Highly Proficient in MS Office Suite, specifically Excel Must be local to the AEO Home Office in New York, NY for the duration of the 10 week internship

Perks & Benefits: Why You’ll Love it Here

Generous Associate Discount! Summer Fridays! Relocation Assistance Volunteer Opportunities Learning & Development Career Exploration + Networking Events
 

Pay/Benefits Information:

Actual starting pay is determined by various factors, including but not limited to relevant experience and location. Subject to eligibility requirements, associates may receive health care benefits (including medical, vision, and dental); wellness benefits; 401(k) retirement benefits; life and disability insurance; employee stock purchase program; paid time off; paid sick leave; and parental leave and benefits. Paid Time Off, paid sick leave, and holiday pay vary by job level and type, job location, employment classification (part-time or full-time / exempt or non-exempt), and years of service.  For additional information, please click here. AEO may also provide discretionary bonuses and other incentives at its discretion.