Online Merchants
Online merchants manage retail businesses that operate exclusively through digital channels. They handle business strategy, merchandise purchasing, inventory management, marketing, order fulfillment, and financial record-keeping. These professionals work for companies ranging from small startups to large e-commerce operations, coordinating all aspects of online sales and logistics.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against online merchants and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves reviewing inventory levels and sales data, communicating with suppliers about stock orders, and monitoring website performance. Online merchants may spend time developing promotional campaigns, analyzing customer trends, and ensuring orders ship accurately and on time. They also handle financial reconciliation, negotiate vendor contracts, and adjust pricing or product offerings based on market demand and competition.
Who this work suits
Holland code CER. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're well-suited for this work if you enjoy organizing systems and processes while also pursuing business growth. People who excel here tend to balance attention to detail with entrepreneurial thinking, combining conventional precision with the drive to expand operations and increase profits.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $81,720 | $108,160 | $140,670 | 37,790 |
| Maryland | $76,470 | $101,500 | $131,280 | 39,820 |
| Washington | $78,980 | $100,360 | $128,830 | 51,650 |
| Alabama | $77,000 | $100,240 | $131,270 | 6,990 |
| Delaware | $69,580 | $95,040 | $132,100 | 1,600 |
| Alaska | $76,000 | $94,740 | $113,740 | 2,020 |
| Oklahoma | $76,020 | $93,640 | $113,980 | 5,700 |
| Massachusetts | $69,980 | $93,270 | $114,750 | 17,910 |
| Hawaii | $71,000 | $92,620 | $117,190 | 4,030 |
| Colorado | $67,610 | $92,520 | $121,120 | 45,670 |
| New Jersey | $71,680 | $91,060 | $117,260 | 34,210 |
| Rhode Island | $65,080 | $88,130 | $115,230 | 2,240 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Information Privacy Professional - Europe (CIPP/E) — International Association of Privacy Professionals
- WOW Certified E-Commerce Manager (CEMS) — World Organization of Webmasters
- Medical Review Officer Certification (MRO) — American Association of Medical Review Officers
- Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) — International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, Inc.
- Project Management E-Business (PME) — Institute of Certified E-Commerce Consultants
- Certified E-Marketing Analyst (CEA) — Institute of Certified E-Commerce Consultants
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against online merchants and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1199.06 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.