Retail Sales Specialist - Cookeville, TN

We are seeking an experienced Retail Sales Specialist that can excel as a customer-facing expert, responsible for delivering knowledgeable, trustworthy, and solution-oriented service in a our Cookeville, TN pool and spa retail environment.

This role goes beyond traditional retail sales; it requires technical product understanding, safe handling awareness, and the ability to guide customers toward the right solution-not just a quick sale.

The ideal candidate is comfortable explaining pool and spa chemicals, equipment, water care basics, and accessories while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized retail floor. Accuracy, professionalism, and customer trust are critical to success in this role. This role is designed for individuals who take pride in educating customers, maintaining safety standards, and delivering reliable pool and spa solutions.

What We Offer:
• Hourly base pay + commission
• Average earnings of $20-$24 per hour (including commission)
• Blue Cross / Blue Shield health insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Employee discounts
• Paid training to set you up for success

You'll work in a fast-paced, supportive retail environment where product knowledge, customer trust, and teamwork matter. If you enjoy building relationships and helping customers make confident buying decisions, we'd love to meet you.

Core Responsibilities
• Customer Service & Sales
• Greet customers promptly and professionally
• Assess customer needs related to pool and spa care, equipment, and maintenance
• Recommend appropriate products and solutions based on customer conditions and usage
• Explain product application, dosage basics, and safety considerations clearly
• Build repeat business through honest guidance and consistent service
• Operate point-of-sale (POS) systems accurately

Product Knowledge & Expertise
Develop and maintain working knowledge of:

• Pool and spa chemicals and water care fundamentals
• Filtration, pumps, heaters, and basic equipment functions
• Seasonal pool and spa maintenance needs
• Accessories, parts, and retail merchandise
• Stay current on product updates, promotions, and safety requirements
• Know when to escalate technical questions to senior staff or management

Safety & Compliance
• Follow all safety protocols related to chemical handling and storage
• Use proper PPE when required
• Maintain awareness of chemical incompatibilities and spill response procedures
• Ensure wet areas, aisles, and entrances remain clean and slip-resistant
• Immediately report unsafe conditions or customer incidents to management

Store Standards & Operations
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked sales floor
• Assist with inventory receiving, stocking, and rotation
• Follow merchandising and signage standards
• Support opening and closing procedures
• Participate in seasonal resets and peak-season preparation

Required Qualifications

• Customer service or retail sales experience (specialty retail preferred)
• Strong communication and listening skills
• Ability to learn and explain technical products clearly
• Basic math skills for measurements and calculations
• Comfort working around chemicals with proper training
• Ability to stand, lift (up to 50 lbs), and move product throughout the shift.
• Flexible for overtime and weekends; peak season may require up to six days/week.

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience in pool, spa, plumbing, HVAC, or home improvement retail
• Water testing or pool maintenance experience
• Familiarity with POS and inventory systems
• Bilingual (a plus, not required)

Required Competencies
• Customer Focus: Builds trust through accurate, helpful recommendations
• Attention to Detail: Follows safety, dosage, and handling instructions precisely
• Integrity: Prioritizes correct solutions over upselling
• Teamwork: Works collaboratively during peak retail periods
• Adaptability: Thrives in a seasonal, fast-paced environment

We will be accepting applications and interviewing candidates between May 6th and June 6th. Please apply for this position on this platform.

Pool and Spa Depot is a Drug-Free Workplace.