Retail Sales Associate

Job Description

Job Description

Powerhouse Arts (PHA) is a not-for-profit organization committed to creative expression. Located in a purpose-built facility in Brooklyn, PHA convenes an extended network of art and fabrication professionals and educators who co-create and share artistic practices vital to the well-being of artists and the communities to which they belong. PHA offers fabrication programs in ceramics, print, and public art; alongside membership studios in ceramics and at MGC Community Print Studio, textile workshop, The Alpha Workshops; and spaces for education, events, and public engagement.

Powerhouse Arts is a not-for-profit organization committed to creative expression. Housed in a purpose-built-facility in Brooklyn, the organization hosts an extended network of art and fabrication professionals and educators who work together to co-create and share artistic practices vital to the well-being of artists and the communities to which they serve. Our facilities house fabrication services, production services, production spaces, and member workshops for artisans. In 2025, PHA expects to welcome in thousands of patrons as the building becomes a center for art and performance in addition to launching a PHA store.

The PHA Store showcases works brought to life through our state-of-the-art fabrication facilities. We are currently seeking part-time Retail Sales Associate(s) to deliver outstanding customer service and share in-depth product knowledge, while helping to grow a loyal onsite and online audience for the PHA Store. Retail Sales Associate will play a key role in maintaining compelling merchandise displays, representing PHA's offerings, and collaborating with the Visitor Services team to deliver a welcoming and inclusive experience for every visitor.

The ideal candidate brings prior retail experience and a strong commitment to providing excellent customer service rooted in kindness, accessibility, and attentiveness to all guests. This role will report to the Vice President of External Affairs & General Counsel.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Deliver exceptional customer service by actively engaging with guests and meeting their needs with professionalism and care.
• Accurately process sales transactions across various sales channels and technology platforms (POS connected to Shopify backend).
• Handle financial transactions responsibly.
• Maintain the cleanliness, organization, and functionality of assigned areas—including the sales floor, back-of-house, merchandise displays, and related spaces.
• Support inventory counts and assist with other inventory-related tasks, including data entry for products on the Shopify backend.
• Update the PHA Store's website with new products (hosted on Sanity.io) (
• Liaise with the Associate Director of Visitor Services and their team to provide front desk coverage (if needed during shift), providing consistent levels of service across both.
• Be knowledgeable about Powerhouse Arts, including its mission, history, programs, and events, and effectively communicate this information to visitors.

Qualifications:

• 1–2 years of experience in a public-facing customer service role.
• Passion for the arts and alignment with Powerhouse Arts' mission.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills, with an outgoing and professional demeanor.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Accurate and reliable financial transaction abilities.
• High attention to detail and strong administrative skills.
• Genuine interest in engaging with the public and enhancing the visitor experience.
• Availability to work nights and weekends.
• Strong communication, listening, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in additional languages is a plus.
• Comfortable using Asana and Google Workspace.
• Prior experience with Shopify and eCommerce websites a strong plus.

Physical Demands/ Work Environment

• Must be able to move throughout the space, including standing and/or walking for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds over short distances.
• Frequent use of hands and arms is required; vision requirements include close, distance, peripheral, and depth perception, as well as the ability to adjust focus.

To Apply : Please apply with a thoughtful cover letter and resume. Only qualified candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Hours + Compensation: Due to the nature of the role, flexibility to work on evenings and weekends is required. The schedule for this position will be a set schedule in shifts between Wednesday-Sunday (scheduled in advance, no more than 3 shifts / week). The hourly rate for this position is $21 an hour. Benefits include time off includes vacation, holidays, personal days, and a week off at year's end.

Powerhouse Arts is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants receive consideration without regard to race, age, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. Powerhouse is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace and recognize the positive value of diversity.

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