Store Manager in Training

Manager-in-Training (MIT) – Path to Store Manager I

Ideal candidates are flexible and willing to temporarily travel within the Kansas City metro area for training prior to the St. Joseph store opening.

Location: St. Joseph, MO (New Store Opening)

Training Location: Kansas City Metro Area (Temporary)

Employer: The Salvation Army – Adult Rehabilitation Centers Command

Employment Type: Full-Time | Non-Exempt

Pay Range: $16.75/hr.

About The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is an international movement and evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name—without discrimination. Through our Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARCs), we help individuals rebuild lives and find purpose through meaningful work, structure, and community impact.

Position Overview

Are you ready to take the next step in your retail leadership career?

The Manager-in-Training (MIT) role is a structured, 12-week development program designed to prepare high-potential team members to become Store Managers (Level I). MITs learn every aspect of managing a thriving thrift store—from leading people and driving sales to ensuring compliance and operational excellence.

Important: This position is for a new thrift store opening in St. Joseph, MO. New hires will complete training at established Salvation Army store locations in the Kansas City metro area for several weeks (up to approximately one month) following their start date. Once training is complete and the store opens, the MIT will transition to the St. Joseph location.

Upon successful completion, you'll be eligible for promotion to Store Manager I, responsible for the day-to-day management of a store generating up to $1M in annual sales.

What You'll Learn During the MIT Program

(12-Week Training | Combination of Classroom, Hands-On, and Evaluated Review Points)

MIT Program CFB approved 033120…

• Store operations management, including sales, production, and donation flow
• Staff recruitment, training, supervision, and coaching for performance improvement
• Cash handling, daily deposits, and budget adherence
• OSHA safety, store maintenance, and visual merchandising standards
• Customer service, loss prevention, and product rotation procedures
• Communication and reporting requirements with Regional Management and ARC leadership

Training progress is reviewed at 30-, 60-, and 90-day checkpoints, ensuring clear performance goals and readiness for promotion.

Upon Promotion: Store Manager I Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of store operations to achieve daily, weekly, and monthly sales goals
• Recruit, train, and develop staff while promoting a positive, mission-driven culture
• Manage donation, production, and sales processes for efficiency and compliance
• Oversee store appearance, safety, and customer experience standards
• Maintain accurate financial reporting, including bank runs, deposits, and cash controls
• Monitor expenses and inventory while protecting assets from loss or waste
• Foster strong communication with Regional Managers and ARC leadership

Qualifications

• Previous retail or management experience preferred; strong internal candidates encouraged to apply
• Demonstrated leadership, initiative, and communication skills
• Positive attitude, professional integrity, and commitment to The Salvation Army mission
• Must qualify for TSA MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) and be able to perform bank runs
• Valid driver's license required
• Ability to lift/move up to 50 lbs (occasionally up to 100 lbs)
• Must be willing and able to train at multiple Kansas City metro locations prior to the St. Joseph store opening

Why Join Us

• Paid on-the-job training with clear promotion path
• Career growth into management within a respected nonprofit organization
• Meaningful work that directly supports life-changing rehabilitation programs
• Comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, retirement, and paid time off
• Supportive team environment grounded in faith and service

The Salvation Army is committed to caring for those who care for others. We offer a comprehensive, affordable benefits package designed to support your health, your family, and your future.

Our benefits include:

• Medical, Dental, Vision & Hearing Coverage through Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield – multiple plan options with affordable premiums and low copays.
• Prescription Coverage with Express Scripts – mail-order options for convenience and lower costs.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Employer-Paid Basic Life Insurance and options to purchase additional voluntary life coverage for you and your dependents.
• Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance through Unum, including income-protection buy-up options.
• Supplemental Aflac Plans (Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity) to help offset unexpected medical costs.
• MetLife Pet Insurance available with preventive care options for your furry family members.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering 24/7 confidential counseling, legal, and financial resources.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays each year.
• Retirement Savings Plan (403b) with employer match eligibility.
• Opportunities for growth, training, and career development within one of the nation's largest and most trusted nonprofits.