Retail Associate

Job Details Job Location: 1621 HARRISON AVE - Centralia, WA 98531 Education Level: Not Specified Salary Range: $17.13 - $18.00 Hourly Job Category: Customer Service About the Role Ace Hardware built its reputation on something the big box stores can't fake: the feeling that someone actually knows you, knows your project, and genuinely wants to help you get it right. At Lincoln Creek Lumber, that reputation is built one interaction at a time, and our Sales Associates are the ones building it. Here, customer service means getting involved. You walk customers to what they need, learn their project, and track down answers when you don't have them. You're the reason someone drives past three other hardware stores to come here instead. What You'll Do Greet every customer the moment you see them: "What can I help you find today?" Walk customers to what they need rather than waving in a general direction Build your product knowledge so you can help customers find real solutions, not just close guesses Handle complaints with patience and empathy, pull in a manager when needed, and document anything that requires follow‑up Offer to load heavy items into customer vehicles without being asked Cross‑train as a cashier and jump in during busy periods without hesitation Keep your assigned aisles swept, dusted, faced, and stocked Put away freight and organize back stock when deliveries arrive Know the monthly ads and actively direct customers to specials Complete paperwork for in-store and online orders accurately and on time Wear your radio, stay connected, and communicate proactively with the team Stay sharp on safety procedures and speak up when you see a way to improve them Attend monthly store meetings Who You Are You're the kind of person who notices a customer looking uncertain and is already heading their way before they make eye contact. Small talk is easy for you. Helping people is the part of the day you actually look forward to. You take pride in knowing your stuff, but you're just as comfortable saying "let me find out" and then actually following through. You show up on time, do the job right, and genuinely care whether the store looks good and runs smoothly. You understand that the small‑town hardware experience doesn't happen by accident. It happens because people like you choose to make it happen, every single shift. Qualifications A genuine love of helping people, not just a tolerance for it Clear, friendly communication with customers, teammates, and management Product knowledge or a real eagerness to build it fast Strong organization skills and attention to detail Reliable, punctual attendance and a team‑first attitude Comfortable with basic math and computer tasks Available for flexible scheduling including evenings, weekends, and holidays Bilingual in Spanish (verbal and written) strongly desired Physical Requirements Ability to stand for extended periods Flexibility to reach and bend throughout the shift Able to lift 60 lbs. without assistance Benefits Medical/Rx Dental Voluntary Vision Life/AD&D Insurance Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 401(k) Paid sick time: 1 hour per 40 hours worked Paid Vacation First Year: 3.34 hours per month (40 hours per calendar year) Years 2-7: 6.67 hours per month (80 hours per calendar year) Years 8+: 10 hours per month (120 hours per calendar year) Holidays Easter Thanksgiving Christmas Employee Birthday Ready to Be the Reason They Come Back? If you love people, take pride in your work, and want to be part of a team that actually cares, we want to hear from you. #J-18808-Ljbffr