Sales Associate

Job Summary

This position reports to the Store Manager within the scope of the mission, guiding principles, values, ethics and strategic goals of Goodwill Industries of Northeast Iowa, Inc. It is responsible for assisting with customers and register transactions, donation receiving, loading and unloading trailers, sorting and grading material, baling in some locations, merchandising, stocking and rotating product, and light‑duty maintenance and housekeeping. Provides excellent service to both internal and external customers by way of communication, assistance, and quality of work.

Responsibilities

• Greets customers immediately upon entering store and ensures good customer service and a shopping experience that meets agency expectations.
• Sorts and grades all donations and truck shipments in a timely and effective manner so that stores are well‑stocked with high‑quality merchandise.
• Operates cash register so that all transactions are handled pleasantly and effectively; customers do not wait more than 15 seconds when first in line and assistance is called when more than three customers are in line.
• Identifies appropriate merchandise for online sales and handles it according to process/procedure.
• Marks and stocks new goods merchandise according to process/procedure.
• Greets donors pleasantly at their car and immediately unloads items, ensuring a positive donating experience.
• Distributes donations to the proper work or holding area and records donation counts accurately; offers tax receipt form to each donor.
• Between donor engagements, sorts material so that 95 % unsaleable items are redirected to garbage or salvage.
• Prevents theft by remaining alert in all areas and immediately notifying management of any suspicious activities.
• Assists with shoveling snow, replacing light bulbs, washing windows, and other upkeep tasks.
• Advises and demonstrates all job duties for new team members.
• Maintains top‑flight condition and appearance of store and donation area by focusing on housekeeping and safety at all times; communicates needs for repair, fixtures, maintenance, etc.
• Works collaboratively within department to maximize service opportunities and maintain a continuous‑improvement agenda.
• Helps prepare outgoing truck loads including baling, sorting, operating forklift, organizing, etc.; assists truck driver in loading/unloading.
• Minimizes waste expense and maximizes salvage revenue opportunity by recycling products in the most resourceful way.
• Ensures equipment is in safe operating condition and that all safeguards are in place.
• Completes all duties of the job and all work requirements.
• Models Goodwill’s core values, IMPACT (Inspire Others, Mission First, People Matter, Align with Community, Create Opportunity, Tell our Stories).

Qualifications

• At least 16 years old.
• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred; a minimum of two years of any combination of military service, high school, or related full‑time employment may substitute.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Positive attitude with the ability to inspire enthusiasm in others.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull fifty pounds with assistance.
• Loyalty to the agency and its mission and policies.
• Reliable transportation.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule at multiple locations, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Willingness to obtain a forklift license if able.
• Ability to use good judgment, discretion, and initiative.