Retail Specialist

SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE

The Retail Specialist plays a crucial role in supporting daily retail store operations, delivering outstanding customer service, and maintaining accurate financial and inventory records. This position oversees key functions including transaction processing, inventory management, shipping and postal operations, and fulfillment of online orders. Additionally, the Retail Specialist serves as the Clothing Manager/Buyer, responsible for apparel selection and inventory, including uniforms and program-specific supplies for academic departments such as Welding, Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Radiologic Technology, and Automotive. This is a full time, 12-month position and the salary range is $35,000-$38,000.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide frontline customer service and assist cashiers during peak hours.
• Open and close the store following security and operational procedures.
• Operate the cash register, process sales, returns, and exchanges; handle multiple payment types.
• Prepare daily deposits, reconcile financial reports, and ensure accurate accounting.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming retail environment.
• Serve as a lead worker: assign tasks, train staff, and oversee team performance.
• Manage shipping, receiving, and vendor relations, including freight coordination.
• Oversee postal operations: sorting, stamping, and distribution of campus mail.
• Lead online order processing and fulfillment for textbooks, supplies, and apparel.
• Support textbook buyback and system update processes.
• Coordinate book buyback activities and inventory management.
• Co-oversee inventory and related duties in collaboration with the Store Manager.
• Act as Clothing/Apparel Manager/Buyer: oversee selection, purchasing, merchandising, and inventory control of apparel, including spirit wear and healthcare/technical uniforms.
• Manage procurement of scrubs and uniforms for Nursing (RN & PN), Respiratory Therapy, and Radiologic Technology programs.
• Order and track automotive tools and welding supplies in collaboration with faculty and vendors.
• Will perform other duties as assigned.

Required skills/abilities

• 1–2 years retail or customer service experience.
• Strong cash handling skills and financial attention to detail.
• Ability to lead and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Proficiency with POS systems, inventory software, and basic office applications.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to creatively display merchandise.
• Ability to coordinate, instruct and review the work of others as a lead worker or to serve in a supervisory capacity in the absence of the bookstore manager.

Preferred skills/abilities

• Experience in procurement, merchandise buying, or program-specific ordering (e.g., medical scrubs, trade tools).
• Background in academic or campus retail operations.
• Familiarity with college textbook and merchandise ordering cycles.

Education and Experience

• Formal education of a high school diploma.
• At least one year of experience in retail operations.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods during shifts.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs for stocking and receiving.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, or holidays during peak periods (e.g., semester starts, sporting events).

Applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references with contact information.