Thrift Store Associate

Thrift Store Associate

The Thrift Store Associate supports Church on the Rocks Purpose and Vision by providing excellent customer service and operational support in both the front and back of house at our Palmer thrift store.

Working under the leadership of the Managing Director and in collaboration with other Thrifters Rock staff and volunteers, this role helps ensure the store operates with excellence, integrity, and alignment with Thrifters Rock values and the culture constants of Church on the Rock.

The Thrift Store Associate may serve in a variety of areas including donation intake, sorting, testing, pricing, stocking, cashiering, and general customer service. The role is responsible for fostering a welcoming, Christ-centered environment while maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient workspace.

The Thrift Store Associate is expected to demonstrate hospitality, professionalism, teamwork, and a servant-hearted attitude in all areas of store operation.

Responsibilities & Duties

1. Customer & Donor Service

• Greet and assist customers warmly as they enter and exit the store.
• Help customers find items, answer questions, and provide guidance about store policies and services.
• Assist donors by unloading donations safely, offering receipts/coupons, and expressing appreciation.
• Provide purpose-aligned service to all donors, customers, volunteers, and team members.

2. Cash Handling & Point of Sale (Front of House Positions)

• Process purchases, returns, and refunds accurately and efficiently.
• Operate the Point of Sale system with accuracy and integrity.
• Safeguard cash and follow all established financial procedures.
• Maintain tidy, organized counters and register areas throughout the shift.

3. Donation Processing & Sorting (Back of House Positions)

• Pre-sort and evaluate donations, identifying marketable items.
• Sort items into correct departments (housewares, clothing, tools, toys, electronics, etc.).
• Route unsellable items to ARC, recycling, or trash in accordance with store standards.
• Maintain a clear and organized donation intake and processing area.

4. Testing, Cleaning & Merch Prep (Merch Positions)

• Test electronics, tools, and other items for basic functionality.
• Label items as Tested or Sold As Is with appropriate notes when needed.
• Clean, wipe down, assemble, and prepare items to meet presentation standards.
• Pair sets, assemble furniture, and ensure completeness of items as applicable.

5. Pricing & Stocking

• Research and price items according to established pricing guidelines and policies.
• Stay updated on pricing regulations and seek supervisor guidance when unsure.
• Stock and organize merchandise on the sales floor to maintain an appealing, professional environment.
• Remove or reroute items that do not meet store standards.

6. Store Care, Cleanliness & Maintenance

• Assist in general cleaning tasks (store floor, bathrooms, dressing rooms, workstations).
• Keep both front- and back-of-house areas organized, safe, and free of hazards.
• Assist with moving furniture, packing boxes, and rearranging displays as needed.
• Ensure dressing rooms are cleaned and reset at the end of the day (if working front of house).

7. Opening & Closing Support

• Assist with opening duties: unlocking doors, preparing stations, turning on lights and signage.
• Assist with closing duties: securing merchandise, tidying areas, and preparing for the next day.

8. Team Support

• Work cooperatively with staff and volunteers to support daily store operations.
• Contribute to a culture of teamwork, encouragement, and shared purpose.
• Communicate needs, concerns, and suggestions to leadership in a timely, respectful manner.

Qualifications

• Alignment with COTR/Thrifters Rock policies, procedures, culture constants, and values.
• Teachable, dependable, and a servant-hearted team player. Minimum age: 17.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs with reasonable accommodations.
• Stand while working, serving or performing tasks.
• Current screening form and background check on file.

Preferred Skills

• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Basic math and computer proficiency.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment and work in a variety of roles as needed.
• Knowledge of tools, outdoor gear, electronics, furniture, or resale value is helpful.
• Good attention to detail and ability to assess item quality and function.