RETAIL SALES ASSOCIATE

Role Summary Product knowledge of Marders’ plants, products, and services is a fundamental requirement of the Retail Sales Associate role. Sales Associates drive sales by delivering exceptional service, building authentic client relationships, and consistently meeting or exceeding sales goals. Must be able to work weekends. Job Responsibilities Maintain strong knowledge of Marders plant material, products, and services, and be able to describe them clearly to customers. Educate clients on plant care, proper soil conditions, fertilizers, and organic gardening practices. Maintain knowledge of annuals, perennials, trees & shrubs. Make an authentic first impression to welcome and connect with customers, doing what it takes to create a seamless and enjoyable experience for our clients. Support floor sales by recommending complementary products and identifying add-on opportunities for customers. Review the daily sales report and track progress toward daily and weekly sales goals. Execute register transactions and operate the POS system as needed to support floor sales. Maintain visually compelling plant and product displays that meet Marders’ merchandising standards. Assist in tagging, replenishing, and offloading as needed to support receiving and operational tasks as directed. Communicate effectively with clients and colleagues while using Acumatica and established clienteling protocols to conduct daily clienteling and follow-up. Share feedback, insights, and ideas with the management team and voice concerns constructively as they occur. Understand the importance of environmental issues and support company efforts to enforce recycling, reduction of plastic and waste (including proper separation of compost, plastics, glass, paper, and food waste). Be available during peak business periods, including weekends, holidays, and special events. Perform all other duties as assigned. Customer Engagement and Sales Greet and assist customers in selecting plants, trees, and garden products that meet their needs. Drive sales by recommending plants, garden products, and complementary add-on items. Use plant and product knowledge to provide care guidance, gardening advice, and design suggestions. Promote seasonal merchandise and key product categories to support store sales goals. Resolve customer questions or concerns in a professional and timely manner. Preferred Skills and Qualifications 4‑year degree in horticulture or 4+ years of relevant experience in horticulture, landscaping, or garden retail. Working knowledge of annuals, perennials, trees, and shrubs, and their proper care. Knowledge of soils, fertilizers, and plant health, with the ability to identify common plant issues and recommend appropriate solutions. Familiarity with local growing zones and common deer and pest challenges affecting plants in the region. Ability to confidently recommend plants and garden products while suggesting complementary items to customers. Strong communication and customer service skills with the ability to build relationships with clients. Interest in organic gardening, sustainable practices, and environmentally responsible gardening methods. Additional horticultural training, such as biodynamics, herbalism, or arboriculture, is considered a plus. Salary Range: $40.00 - $55.00 per hour, commensurate with experience. Benefits Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications. Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k).

M/F/D/V EOE