Lead Sales Associate

Lead Sales Associate   Location: Ames, IA Pay: $13.00 per hour Job Type: Full-time  Schedule: 35 hours per week, Monday - Saturday must have flexible scheduling  Benefits: * Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays, prorated by scheduled hours * Optional voluntary life insurance * 403(b) retirement savings plan * Access to additional voluntary benefit options * Employer funded pension plan for eligible employees   About the Role At The Salvation Army Thrift Store, your work helps turn donations into funding for programs that support people in our community. We're seeking a dedicated Lead Store Sales Associate to support our store management team. This role is vital in maintaining efficient store operations, providing excellent customer service, and supporting our mission through daily retail operations.   What You’ll Do   Sales & Operations * Support management with product sales and acquisition * Implement store opening and closing procedures * Handle banking and daily deposits * Execute strategies to meet product acquisition, production and sales goals  * Manage product rotation process and inventory turnover Customer Experience & Store Maintenance * Create an enjoyable shopping experience with positive customer service skills * Handle customer complaints as needed * Support store maintenance and appearance * Maintain displays and floor layout plans * Identify ways to improve store appeal Leadership & Communication * Provide direction to staff in absence of management * Communicate effectively with store management regarding operations * Support implementation of policies and procedures * Document and report concerns in behavior or attitude * Assist others with basic register problem solving What We Offer * Opportunity to make a positive impact in your community * Professional development and growth opportunities * Supportive and mission-driven work environment * Comprehensive benefits package Training Provided * Paid training on register and store procedures * Ongoing coaching and support from store leadership * Opportunity to build retail and customer service skills * Professional development and growth opportunities Why Join Us * Mission-driven work that supports programs in your community * On-the-job training * Team-oriented environment * Employee Discount, Employee Assistance Program, and more! Qualifications What You Need   Required Education & Experience * High School Graduate or Equivalent * Retail experience required Skills & Abilities * Ability to speak, write and understand English for effective communication * Basic computer skills including Point of Sales System and payroll program * Proficient cash handling and accurate change-giving abilities * Strong customer service orientation Certifications * Valid Driver's License and personal transportation for bank runs * Must be able to pass a Motor Vehicle Record Search Physical Requirements * Regularly required to stand, use hands, handle, feel, hear, and talk * Frequently required to walk and reach with hands and arms * Occasionally required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch * Must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds * Specific vision abilities required: close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus Work Environment * Store environment with quiet to moderate noise level * May be dusty and experience temperature fluctuations based on weather * May stand for extended periods Travel * May be required to travel to various locations for work or training The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are returning to work, U.S. Veterans, people with disabilities, people impacted by the justice system, and people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.