Bookstore Retail Associate

Primary Responsibilities

The Bookstore Retail Associate supports daily bookstore operations and customer service functions to ensure a positive, efficient customer experience. Key responsibilities include executing merchandising plans, managing product flow, and providing inventory support to keep the store stocked and organized. Additionally, this role maintains high store presentation and operational standards while delivering direct, reliable operational support to the Retail Manager.

Specific Responsibilities

Store Operations & Customer Service

• Assist with daily opening and closing procedures.
• Provide exceptional customer service, assisting students, faculty, staff, and visitors with purchases and inquiries.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized store environment.
• Support operations during peak periods, including campus rush weeks, textbook pickup cycles, and start-of-semester activities.
• Support strict compliance with all bookstore policies, campus procedures, and operational guidelines.

Merchandising & Product Presentation

• Execute visual merchandising standards, including stocking shelves and setting up displays for apparel, school supplies, and gifts.
• Restock merchandise efficiently from back stock to ensure full floor coverage.
• Maintain accurate product pricing, shelf tags, and promotional signage.
• Assist with display changes, seasonal resets, and the presentation of graduation or special event merchandise.
• Support the implementation of pricing adjustments, markdowns, and promotional events.
• Provide valuable feedback on customer preferences and product performance to management.

Inventory Support

• Assist with receiving, unpacking, verifying, and stocking incoming merchandise.
• Monitor stock levels and proactively report replenishment needs to the Retail Manager.
• Support inventory accuracy through proper handling, organization, and regular cycle counts.
• Assist with processing merchandise and vendor returns as directed.
• Follow established procedures for pricing updates and product rollouts.

Sales & Transaction Processing

• Operate the point-of-sale (POS) system and process customer transactions accurately.
• Process specialized campus transactions, including student financial aid, campus card accounts, and departmental charges.
• Assist with cash handling, drawer balancing, and daily closing reconciliation procedures.
• Support service desk operations, online order processing, and customer inquiries as needed.

Staff & Operational Support

• Assist with the onboarding, training, and day-to-day peer support of student employees.
• Provide reliable support for daily operational tasks and floor coverage.
• Assist with the setup and execution of campus promotions and in-store events.
• Assist with basic administrative duties and perform other duties as assigned by leadership.

Required Qualifications

• Associate's Degree.
• Retail or customer service experience.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills with a proven ability to provide exceptional customer service.
• Basic computer skills, including experience with point-of-sale (POS) systems.
• Ability to perform physical retail tasks, including standing for extended periods and lifting up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings, weekends, and peak retail periods.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task, prioritize, and work efficiently as a strong team player.
• Experience working in, and contributing to, a diverse environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior retail experience specifically within a college or university bookstore environment.
• Prior experience in Merchandising and/or Inventory management.