Retail Specialist

Retail Specialist - Campus Bookstore & Apparel Shop Hourly Rate: $18/ hour Location: Southeast Arkansas College Bookstore Job Type: Full-time, Hourly Job Summary: The Retail Specialist is responsible for providing exceptional customer service and operational support at the campus bookstore and apparel shop. This role ensures a seamless shopping experience for students, faculty, and staff by assisting store management to oversee day-to-day operations, maintaining accurate inventory, and supporting merchandising strategies to drive sales. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, a proactive approach to problem‑solving, and the ability to foster a positive and productive store environment. Key Responsibilities: Store Operations: Oversee daily opening and closing procedures, ensuring adherence to company policies and security protocols. Maintain a clean, organized, and visually appealing store environment. Customer Service: Provide a welcoming and professional experience to all customers, offering assistance with product inquiries, order placements, and purchases both in‑store and online. Address customer concerns and complaints promptly, escalating complex issues to store management as needed. Stay informed on current promotions, store policies, and product offerings to accurately assist customers. Inventory Management: Receive and process new inventory shipments, ensuring stock accuracy and proper organization. Regularly monitor inventory levels, notifying management of potential stock shortages to avoid disruptions in product availability. Participate in inventory audits and ensure compliance with company standards for stock handling. Collaborate with store management on merchandising plans to enhance product displays and create engaging in‑store experiences. Implement visual merchandising guidelines and refresh displays regularly to align with promotions, seasonal trends, and customer preferences. Identify and recommend opportunities for promotional items and clearance sales to maximize revenue. Plan and host pop‑up shops to sell merchandise at athletic and other events around campus. Support and guide team members to ensure smooth store operations and maintain a high level of customer service. Foster a positive work environment that encourages teamwork, initiative, and continuous improvement. Qualifications: Previous retail or customer service experience, preferably in a campus store or similar environment. Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a focus on customer satisfaction. Attention to detail, particularly in inventory management and visual merchandising. Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Flexibility to work varied shifts, including weekends and evenings, as needed. Physical Requirements: Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, including during shifts that may last up to 8 hours. Frequently lift and carry items weighing up to 25 pounds, with occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds. Ability to bend, squat, reach, and climb ladders to retrieve merchandise or perform store‑related tasks. Manual dexterity required for using POS systems, stocking shelves, and handling inventory. Ability to perform tasks that involve repetitive motions, such as typing or scanning items. Why Join Us? Competitive hourly wage: $18.00/hour Opportunities for growth and career development in a vibrant campus environment Be part of a collaborative and energetic team Enjoy working in a space that values excellent customer service and teamwork #J-18808-Ljbffr