Position
Salary

How much does a Category Manager make?

The average salary for a Category Manager is $91,275 per year in the US.

A Category Manager plays a key role in the supply chain and retail sectors. They focus on managing specific product categories to ensure profitability and customer satisfaction. The average yearly salary for a Category Manager is around $91,275. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.


Salary ranges for Category Managers can differ significantly. Some earn as little as $29,750, while others can make over $176,700 per year. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Entry-level positions often start around $29,750.
  • Mid-career managers can expect to earn between $69,827 and $123,264.
  • Experienced managers in top positions can make over $176,700.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Category Manager?

Job seekers looking for Category Manager roles can find some of the highest salaries in Boston, MA, where the average salary reaches $136,854. California cities also offer competitive pay, with San Jose at $129,520 and San Francisco at $127,431. Seattle, WA, provides a strong market with an average salary of $120,338. These cities present excellent opportunities for those seeking top compensation in the field. Madison, WI, and Denver, CO, also offer attractive salaries, making them viable options for Category Managers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Category Manager jobs, highlighting Boston, MA with the highest at $136,854 and Washington, DC with the lowest at $115,662.
  1. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $136,854
    Boston offers a dynamic environment for those managing product categories. With major companies like General Electric and Liberty Mutual, professionals can expect to work in a fast-paced setting. The city's rich history and vibrant culture provide a unique backdrop for career growth.
    Find Category Manager jobs in Boston, MA


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $129,520
    In San Jose, category managers thrive in a tech-driven market. Companies like Apple and Intel dominate the landscape, offering exciting opportunities. The city's innovative spirit and strong economy make it an ideal place for career advancement.
    Find Category Manager jobs in San Jose, CA


  3. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $127,431
    San Francisco presents a vibrant market for category managers. With giants like Salesforce and Uber, professionals can expect to work on cutting-edge projects. The city's progressive culture and diverse opportunities make it a top choice for career growth.
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  4. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $122,147
    San Diego offers a balanced environment for category managers. Companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms provide a mix of opportunities. The city's mild climate and quality of life make it an attractive place to work and live.
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  5. Madison, WI
    Average Salary: $121,566
    Madison provides a supportive environment for category managers. With companies like Epic Systems and American Family Insurance, professionals can expect stable and rewarding careers. The city's strong community and affordable living add to its appeal.
    Find Category Manager jobs in Madison, WI


  6. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $120,338
    Seattle offers a vibrant market for category managers. With tech leaders like Amazon and Microsoft, professionals can expect dynamic and innovative work. The city's natural beauty and progressive culture make it an ideal place for career growth.
    Find Category Manager jobs in Seattle, WA


  7. Greeley, CO
    Average Salary: $118,790
    Greeley provides a close-knit environment for category managers. With companies like JBS USA and Ball Corporation, professionals can expect stable and rewarding careers. The city's affordable living and strong community make it a great place to work.
    Find Category Manager jobs in Greeley, CO


  8. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $118,098
    Denver offers a thriving market for category managers. With companies like Chipotle and Denver International Airport, professionals can expect diverse opportunities. The city's vibrant culture and outdoor activities make it an attractive place to live and work.
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  9. Providence, RI
    Average Salary: $118,039
    Providence offers a unique environment for category managers. With companies like CVS Health and Textron, professionals can expect a mix of opportunities. The city's rich history and vibrant arts scene make it a great place to work and live.
    Find Category Manager jobs in Providence, RI


  10. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $115,662
    Washington, DC offers a dynamic environment for category managers. With government agencies and major companies like Lockheed Martin, professionals can expect impactful work. The city's political influence and cultural attractions make it an exciting place to work.
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What are the best companies a Category Manager can work for?

Takeda Pharmaceuticals offers one of the highest salaries for Category Manager jobs, averaging $194,737 annually. Microsoft and Kimberly-Clark also provide competitive pay, with average salaries around $151,739 and $150,855, respectively. Chewy, CRUSOE, and Abbott follow closely, ensuring attractive compensation packages for those in this role.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Category Manager jobs, highlighting Takeda Pharmaceuticals with the highest at $194,737 and Exact Sciences with the lowest at $142,200.
  1. Takeda Pharmaceuticals
    Average Salary: $194,737
    Takeda Pharmaceuticals offers exciting opportunities for Category Managers. They work in various locations, including the United States, Europe, and Asia. Category Managers at Takeda focus on developing and managing pharmaceutical products.


  2. Microsoft
    Average Salary: $151,739
    Microsoft provides a dynamic environment for Category Managers. They operate globally, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Category Managers at Microsoft manage technology products and services.


  3. Kimberly-Clark
    Average Salary: $150,855
    Kimberly-Clark is a leading company in personal care products. Category Managers work in locations across North America, Europe, and Asia. They focus on managing household and health care products.


  4. Lonza
    Average Salary: $150,417
    Lonza is a global biotech company. Category Managers work in various locations, including Europe, North America, and Asia. They manage products for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.


  5. Chewy
    Average Salary: $149,248
    Chewy is a leading online pet retailer. Category Managers work in the United States. They focus on managing pet food and supplies, ensuring high-quality products for pets.


  6. CRUSOE
    Average Salary: $147,733
    CRUSOE is a company specializing in consumer goods. Category Managers work in various locations, including Europe and Asia. They manage a wide range of consumer products, focusing on innovation and quality.


  7. Abbott
    Average Salary: $145,324
    Abbott is a global healthcare company. Category Managers work in locations across North America, Europe, and Asia. They manage products in the nutrition, diagnostics, and medical devices sectors.


  8. Amazon.com
    Average Salary: $143,950
    Amazon offers diverse opportunities for Category Managers. They work in various locations worldwide, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Category Managers manage a wide range of products, including electronics and consumer goods.


  9. Eaton
    Average Salary: $143,467
    Eaton is a power management company. Category Managers work in locations across North America, Europe, and Asia. They manage products for electrical and power systems.


  10. Exact Sciences
    Average Salary: $142,200
    Exact Sciences focuses on cancer diagnostics. Category Managers work in the United States. They manage products that help in the early detection and management of cancer.

How to earn more as a Category Manager?

To increase earnings as a Category Manager, focus on several key areas. Start by gaining experience in high-demand categories. This can lead to higher-paying positions. Building strong relationships with suppliers and vendors also helps. These connections can lead to better deals and cost savings. Another factor is mastering data analysis. This skill helps in making informed decisions that boost profitability. Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends also play a role. This ensures that a Category Manager remains competitive. Lastly, effective communication skills are crucial. They help in negotiating better terms and aligning with company goals.

Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Category Manager:

  1. Gain experience in high-demand categories.
  2. Build strong relationships with suppliers and vendors.
  3. Master data analysis for informed decisions.
  4. Continuously learn and stay updated with industry trends.
  5. Develop effective communication skills for better negotiations.

Currently 570 Category Manager job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Category Manager in the US?

Learn what a Category Manager does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Category Manager today.
Position
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Category Manager
570 Job Openings