What are the responsibilities and job description for the Center for Maine Craft Inventory Coordinator position at Shop Maine Craft?
The Center for Maine Craft operates year-round as a retail gallery and exhibition space representing juried members of the Maine Crafts Association. The Inventory Coordinator plays a central role in daily operations, handling fine craft objects, overseeing inventory systems, supporting retail sales, and contributing to a high-quality visitor experience.
This position requires strong attention to detail, organizational rigor, and clear communication. The Inventory Coordinator works collaboratively with the retail team and serves as an ambassador for both Shop Maine Craft (SMC) and the Maine Crafts Association (MCA), communicating organizational initiatives and fostering relationships with participating artists and the public. To apply, please submit a resume (including references) and send a brief statement of interest to: whitney@mainecrafts.org
Compensation, Hours, and Benefits
This is a part-time position ranging from 16 – 35 hours per week, with higher hours during peak seasons (summer and holidays) and reduced hours January – April. Compensation begins at $20/hour.
Benefits include Maine Crafts Association membership, employee discounts, paid time off, a 401(k) plan, and access to vision and dental insurance (75% employer-paid).
Key Qualifications
The ideal candidate demonstrates reliability, adaptability, and a strong interest in craft, retail operations, and Maine’s cultural landscape.
Preferred experience or familiarity includes:
- Handmade craft traditions and techniques
- Maine geography, tourism, and visitor engagement
- Retail sales and merchandising
- Inventory management systems (POS-based and multi-channel)
- E-commerce platforms (e.g., Shopify)
- CMS platforms (WordPress, Squarespace)
- Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
Weekend and closing shift availability (until 6 PM) is required.
Core Responsibilities
Inventory Management
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date inventory records across 300 vendors
- Conduct ongoing cycle counts and annual full inventory reconciliation
- Use POS-generated Vendor Inventory Reports and maintain documentation in Google Drive
- Coordinate product ordering as directed by management, based on sales data and inventory levels
- Receive, process, and document incoming inventory orders
- Manage vendor returns, damaged/missing item reports, and related payouts
- Ensure accurate tagging, storage, and display of inventory
- Maintain organized back-of-house storage and inventory systems
- Support monthly consignment reporting and payouts with Business Manager
Retail Operations
- Process sales, returns, and exchanges using POS systems
- Provide informed, welcoming customer service
- Package purchases and fulfill webshop orders
- Contribute to achieving annual sales goals
General Operations
- Perform opening and closing procedures
- Maintain store cleanliness, merchandising standards, and restocking
- Oversee travel desk engagement, including visitor tracking and brochure maintenance
Additional Responsibilities
- Support gallery marketing initiatives and in-store events
- Assist with MCA/SMC programming and administrative tasks
- Participate in juries and vendor sourcing as directed by Center Manager
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person