What are the responsibilities and job description for the Outdoor Power Equipment Specialist position at BIG TOOL BOX INC?
Outdoor Power Equipment Specialist
Since 1978, Big Tool Box has been the family-owned hardware haven where “all the expertise is under one roof,” putting customer service at the heart of everything it does. Spanning five powerhouse categories—Ace Hardware and Tools for every nut, bolt, and power tool imaginable; the Rental & Repair Center to keep projects moving without breaking the bank; the Highlands Garden Center bursting with plants, soil, and green-thumb guidance; the Lawn & Sprinkler Center for flawless outdoor irrigation and landscape solutions; and the Grillin and Chillin Center stocked with premium BBQ grills and all the accessories for perfect backyard cookouts—Big Tool Box remains the go-to destination for contractors, gardeners, grill masters, and DIYers alike.
Job Summary
- Serve as the go-to expert for outdoor power equipment (OPE) including lawn mowers, trimmers, blowers, chainsaws, generators, and pressure washers in a locally owned Ace Hardware store.
- Drive sales through in-depth product knowledge, hands-on demonstrations, and tailored recommendations for residential and commercial customers.
- Maintain pristine OPE displays, perform basic assembly/setup, and coordinate service/repairs.
- Full-time availability including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Key Responsibilities
- Product Knowledge & Sales
- Master specifications, features, fuel types (gas, battery, electric), warranties, and maintenance requirements for all OPE brands carried (e.g., EGO, Milwaukee, STIHL, Honda, Craftsman).
- Conduct live demonstrations (starting engines, adjusting settings, safe operation) to build customer confidence and close sales.
- Compare models side-by-side, recommend accessories (blades, batteries, oils), and upsell extended protection plans.
- Customer Consultation & Support
- Ask probing questions to match equipment to yard size, terrain, budget, and usage frequency.
- Educate on safety gear, seasonal storage, and routine maintenance schedules.
- Process special orders, quote parts, and schedule in-store or vendor repairs.
- Merchandising & Inventory
- Assemble, fuel/test, and stage floor models for immediate display and demo readiness.
- Keep OPE area clean, organized, and fully stocked; update pricing, signage, and promotional tags.
- Track fast-moving items, alert management to low stock, and assist with receiving shipments.
- Service Coordination & Safety
- Perform basic pre-delivery inspections (PDI), oil changes, and blade sharpening.
- Tag and log customer units for repair; communicate timelines and costs clearly.
- Enforce safety protocols (PPE, fuel storage, blade guards) and train seasonal staff on safe handling.
- All other duties as assigned by store management
Required Qualifications and Skills
- Education
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Experience
- 1 years in OPE sales, small-engine repair, or landscaping preferred; brand-specific training provided.
- Skills & Abilities
- Deep mechanical aptitude and ability to explain technical details in customer-friendly terms.
- Proven sales track record with consultative selling and closing techniques.
- Proficiency with POS systems, inventory software, and basic hand tools.
- Confident public speaking for group demos and seasonal clinics.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Products
- Physical Requirements
- Lift/move up to 50 lbs repeatedly (mowers, generators).
- Stand/walk for full shift; bend, kneel, and demonstrate equipment at ground level.
- Work indoors/outdoors in varying weather; tolerate fuel fumes and noise.
- 18 years of age or older due to power equipment use
- Other
- Availability for weekend and peak-season hours (spring/fall).
- Commitment to BigToolBox’s helpful culture and continuous learning (factory certifications encouraged).
Salary : $18 - $24