Gaming Specialist & Associate

The Gaming Specialist and Associate is responsible for hosting, judging, and supporting TCG tournaments and events at Midwest Cards. This role combines thorough TCG knowledge, event coordination, and customer service to create an engaging experience for players and collectors. Item Detail Title Gaming Specialist and Associate Reports to Shop Manager(s) Home base Type Full-time, In-Person About Midwest Cards Midwest Cards is a specialty sports and trading card retailer based in Columbus, Ohio. We serve collectors through our Arena District store, our online shop, and live breaks. The role As a Gaming Specialist and Associate, you'll play an important role in bringing the trading card game community together at Midwest Cards. You'll be responsible for hosting and judging TCG tournaments, helping coordinate engaging gaming events, and supporting customers with their collecting and gaming interests. We're looking for someone who is passionate and knowledgeable about the TCG hobby, enjoys interacting with people, and is confident hosting and managing organized play events. Candidates must be proficient in the Pokemon TCG, Magic: The Gathering, and One Piece TCG. Candidates must also be willing to learn other games including but not limited to Riftbound and the Cyberpunk TCG. What you'll do Host and manage TCG events Host, organize, and judge TCG tournaments and other TCG gaming events. Ensure tournaments run smoothly and provide a positive experience for participants. Apply tournament rules and guidelines fairly and consistently. Answer player questions and assist with game rulings and tournament‑related concerns. Help create an engaging and welcoming environment for players of all experience levels. Support event planning and marketing Work with the events and marketing teams to plan and coordinate engaging TCG events. Assist with developing ideas to grow tournament participation and strengthen the local gaming community. Support event setup, execution, and breakdown as needed. Communicate event needs, feedback, and opportunities to the appropriate team members. Support customers and store operations Assist customers with questions about TCG products, collectibles, and gaming. Share knowledge of trading cards, collecting, playing, and the broader hobby. Help identify cards of value that Midwest Cards may be interested in purchasing or trading for. Provide general shop support and assist with store operations as needed. Represent Midwest Cards professionally and contribute to a welcoming customer experience. Required Experience & Qualifications Strong knowledge of the trading card game hobby. Experience judging, hosting, or participating in TCG tournaments. Confident in‑person customer service and communication skills. Ability to interact professionally with staff, and players and customers of varying experience levels. A Judge Certificate or equivalent in one or more TCGs is preferred. Working conditions Schedule: 40 hours per week, primarily Monday–Friday. Nights and evenings are required. Weekend availability is preferred . The schedule will vary based on tournament and event needs. Location: In‑person at Midwest Cards in Columbus, Ohio (Arena District). Compensation and benefits $20‑23 per hour Paid time off. Health, vision, and dental insurance. Midwest Cards is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants of every background and do not discriminate on any basis protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Midwest Cards