What are the responsibilities and job description for the Retail Sales Associate position at MES Life Safety?
Description
About Us
Established in 2001, MES is the nation’s largest provider of PPE, fire apparatus, uniforms, and services to first responders. With over 25 locations, MES is the most trusted source of equipment and service for firefighters, law enforcement, and EMTs. Our dedicated team of over 300 sales representatives and certified service technicians allows us to bring unparalleled quality and service to our industry. MES supports its customers with innovative digital commerce solutions and a nationwide warehousing system with three strategically located hubs that carry thousands of products representing the best brands on the market.
MES offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. MES is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
MES will only employ those legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a pre-employment screening.
Job Description
The Sales Associate is responsible for maintaining and owning the day-to-day operations of the retail space while delivering exceptional customer service and supporting both inside and outside sales functions. This role plays a critical part in ensuring customers receive timely, professional service both in-store and in the field.
This position requires flexibility, teamwork, and a strong customer-first mindset. In a small team environment, the Sales Associate must be self-motivated, adaptable, and willing to support multiple areas of the business as needed to maintain a high level of service and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
1. Retail Space Ownership
- Take full ownership of the retail showroom and customer-facing space
- Prioritize walk-in customers and ensure a high level of customer service at all times
- Maintain proper stock levels on the sales floor and replenish inventory as needed
- Ensure the retail environment remains clean, organized, and professional
- Support all responsibilities outlined within the standard Sales Associate role
2. Support Outside Sales
- Assist outside sales representatives with customer fittings and sizing, both in-store and offsite
- Travel to customer locations, including evenings and weekends when needed, based on customer schedules
- Support large department fittings, recruit classes, and customer events
- Operate the uniform van for customer fittings, deliveries, and service needs as required
- Ride along with outside sales representatives periodically to gain field exposure and strengthen customer relationships
- Make deliveries and assist with customer follow-up as needed
3. Operational Support / Store Assistance
- Assist the Store Manager with daily operational responsibilities including:
- Quality control
- Shipping and receiving
- Picking and packing orders
- Inventory support
- General store operations
- Support additional duties as needed to ensure efficient workflow and customer satisfaction
Requirements
Qualifications
- Strong customer service and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Self-motivated with a proactive and flexible approach to work
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic small-team environment
- Ability to lift, move, and organize inventory as needed
- Valid driver’s license and ability to operate company vehicles when required
- Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends based on customer needs
Success Factors
- Customer-first mindset
- Strong sense of ownership and accountability
- Team-oriented attitude
- Adaptability and willingness to support business priorities
- Professionalism and reliability
- Commitment to maintaining high service standards
Benefits:
- MES Company Vehicle
- 401(k) and company matching
- Medical, Dental and Vision health insurance
- Health savings and Flexible spending accounts
- Life insurance
- Disability insurance
- Paid time off
- Paid Holidays