Part-Time Gift Shop Associate

Position Summary

Lake Metroparks is seeking a part-time Gift Shop Associate to provide courteous, efficient, and knowledgeable service to visitors at Farmpark retail locations. Under the supervision of the Admissions Manager, this position supports gift shop operations in a working farm environment by assisting with sales transactions, merchandise presentation, inventory support, visitor questions, and special events.

Pay and Benefits

Rate: $12.00 starting hourly rate to $16.00 max hourly rate
Pay Grade: PT | Starting salary based on prior experience and education.
Location: Farmpark, Kirtland, OH 44094
Benefits: Lake Metroparks offers a comprehensive benefits package for part-time employees, including: OPERS membership (Ohio Public Employees Retirement System), Northeastern Ohio Inter-Museum Council membership, Agency discounts, and PI285468518.

Position Requirements

• Education and/or Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age. High school diploma or equivalent required. At least six months of cash handling experience preferred.
• Driver’s License: Must possess a valid driver’s license and be insurable under the Agency’s policy.
• Pre-employment background check required.
• Flexible Schedule: Must be able to work an irregular schedule, including weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays, and work in varying weather conditions as needed.
• Team Player: Must be able to work independently and as a team member.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Greet visitors in a professional and welcoming manner and assist with merchandise selection, product information, and general park or farm-related questions.
• Process sales transactions accurately using the point-of-sale system and follow established cash handling, receipt, refund, and reconciliation procedures.
• Aid in inventory control activities, including periodic counts, restocking needs, merchandise rotation, and communication of low-stock or damaged items to the supervisor.
• Maintain the cleanliness, organization, and safety of the gift shop, sales counter, storage areas, displays, and customer-facing spaces.
• Assist with merchandise promotions, seasonal displays, special events, and visitor services as assigned.
• Provide courteous support to volunteers, coworkers, vendors, and visitors while maintaining a positive and professional representation of Lake Metroparks.
• Prepare cash reports, deposits, and related documentation as requested and in accordance with established procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualification Requirements

• Knowledge: Basic retail sales practices, customer service standards, cash handling procedures, and merchandise presentation.
• Skills: Courteous, accurate, and responsive customer service to visitors of all ages; basic mathematics, cash handling, transaction processing, and recordkeeping; organizing merchandise, maintaining displays, and supporting inventory accuracy; verbal communication and responding to visitors’ questions with professionalism and tact; using computers, point-of-sale systems, and basic office software to complete assigned tasks.
• Abilities: Process sales accurately, provide correct change, and follow established cash handling procedures; interact with visitors, coworkers, volunteers, vendors, and supervisors with courtesy, professionalism, and sound judgment; manage multiple tasks, respond to changing priorities, and remain composed during periods of high visitor activity; safely lift, carry, stock, and move merchandise and supplies within established physical demand guidelines; safely use ladders, step stools, and basic retail equipment as needed; follow safety procedures while working in a farm setting near live animals, farm equipment, uneven walking surfaces, and the general public.