HOBS Lead Associate

Job Description

Job Description

Job Description Summary

The Lead Associate in Prosser will be responsible for assisting the Retail Operations Manager in overseeing staff and volunteers, ensuring excellent customer service, managing inventory, and assisting with marketing and community outreach efforts.

Essential Job Functions/Responsibilities

1. Volunteer Management:

• Assist in recruiting, training, and supervising volunteers.
• Schedule shifts and manage daily assignments to ensure smooth operations.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Develop and implement a volunteer training schedule that aligns with individual availability. Provide hands-on training for new and existing volunteers, ensuring familiarity with all aspects of thrift store operations.
• Design and manage a volunteer recognition program to acknowledge and celebrate volunteers' contributions, reinforcing their impact on the organization and its mission.

2. Customer Service:

• Provide exceptional customer service and ensure staff and volunteers do the same.
• Handle customer inquiries, concerns, and complaints professionally and promptly.
• Promote a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all customers.

3. Store Operations:

• Support the Retail Operations Manager in managing daily operations, including opening and closing procedures.
• Maintain store cleanliness, organization, and safety standards.
• Assist in pricing, tagging, and merchandising items to maximize sales.
• Ensure accurate cash handling and financial record-keeping.
• Assist with planning and executing in-store promotional events, including coordinating logistics, procuring event materials, and supporting implementation efforts under the Development Officer.
• Assemble and manage gift baskets for use as raffle prizes, event giveaways, and other special requests as needed for fundraising or community engagement efforts.
• Assist in developing and executing special sales for both store locations, based on seasonal trends, inventory levels, and the Most Valuable Thrifter (MVT) program.

4. Inventory Management:

• Assist with receiving, sorting, and pricing donated items.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with the Retail Operations Manager.
• Organize and maintain the backroom and storage areas efficiently.

Position Qualifications

• Previous retail management or supervisory experience, preferably in a thrift store or similar environment.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team.
• Excellent customer service skills and a commitment to providing a positive shopping experience.
• Organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to multitask.
• Basic knowledge of inventory management and merchandising principles.
• Proficiency in using Square point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer applications.
• Ability to lift and move items up to 40 pounds.
• Passion for the mission of Heartlinks and a desire to contribute to the community.

Working Conditions

• This position requires regular physical activity, including standing for extended periods, lifting, and moving items.
• The role may involve working weekends and occasional evenings as needed.

Benefits

• Full-time employees accrue up to 168 hours of PTO annually, in addition to sick time accrued at the rate of 1 hour for every 40 hours worked. Bereavement and jury duty leave are also available.
• Option to enroll in medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. Heartlinks pays for 100% of the employee's medical premiums and 75% of the employee's dental and vision premiums. Health benefits begin the first of the month after the start date.
• Miles driven for work are reimbursed per mile.
• Holiday pay for 6 observed holidays.
• Ability to enroll in 401(k) and begin contributing at the time of hire. Heartlinks will match dollar for dollar up to 5% of earnings after one year of employment and 1080 hours worked.