What are the responsibilities and job description for the Softgoods Specialist position at The Salvation Army Central Territory?
Join a purpose-driven team and turn donations into impact.
The Salvation Army Family Store in Quincy is hiring a full-time Softgoods Specialist to support our retail operations and mission. If you have experience in retail, apparel processing, merchandising, or warehouse operations and enjoy working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, this role offers meaningful work with real community impact.
Why This Role Matters
At The Salvation Army, retail is more than merchandising, it's ministry in action. As a Softgoods Specialist, you play a critical role behind the scenes by transforming donated clothing into quality merchandise that supports our store and the community we serve. Your work ensures donors feel their contributions are valued, shoppers have access to affordable and well-presented items, and the store operates efficiently.
By maintaining a consistent flow of processed, organized, and properly priced apparel, you directly contribute to funding life-changing programs and services throughout the Quincy area.
Position Details
Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours/week
Pay Rate: $17.00/hour
Position Summary
The Softgoods Specialist plays a key role in driving store success by sorting, pricing, and preparing donated clothing and textiles for sale. This position ensures a steady flow of high-quality merchandise to the sales floor through efficient processing, accurate pricing, and adherence to production standards. You will work closely with store leadership and sales floor staff to meet inventory goals, productivity targets, and sales performance objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Receive, inspect, and process donated clothing and soft goods
- Sort items by size, style, seasonal relevance, quality, and category
- Accurately price and tag merchandise using established guidelines
- Prepare clothing for display using proper hangers and organization standards
- Maintain a consistent flow of merchandise to the sales floor
- Identify high-value brands and resale opportunities to maximize revenue
- Monitor workflow to ensure timely processing and reduce backlog
- Maintain clean, organized stockroom and processing areas
- Collaborate with team members to meet daily and weekly production goals
- Communicate inventory needs and product flow updates to leadership
- Follow Salvation Army policies, including Safe from Harm guidelines
- Promote a respectful, positive, and professional work environment
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Experience in retail, thrift store, apparel, warehouse, stocking, or merchandising
- Familiarity with clothing brands, resale value, and pricing strategies
Core Skills
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
- Knowledge of fashion, apparel sorting, and merchandising techniques
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to meet productivity and processing targets
- Basic math and computer skills for pricing, inventory processes, and training
- Dependability, punctuality, and strong work ethic
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
Physical & Working Conditions
- Ability to stand and move throughout the store for extended periods
- Frequent bending, reaching, lifting, and sorting
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds with assistance as needed
- Retail thrift store setting with exposure to varying temperatures, dust, odors, and donated goods.
Employee Benefits & Perks
- Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, and retirement options, plus paid time off (14 holidays, vacation, sick, personal time)
- Free Individual or Family Kroc Center Membership - Enjoy access to fitness, aquatics, and wellness opportunities
- Employee Discount - Receive a generous discount on store purchases
- Supportive Team Environment - Work alongside caring, mission-minded teammates who support one another
- Purpose-Drive Work - Be part of a respected, faith-based organization dedicated to hope, dignity, and service
- Skill Development - Gain hands-on experience in customer service, retail operations, and teamwork
- Pride in Impact - Know that your work directly supports local programs serving individuals and families in need
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About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is dedicated to putting faith into action by meeting physical, emotional, and spiritual needs without discrimination. We serve with compassion, respect dignity, and work daily to rebuild lives and strengthen communities.
The Quincy Area Command serves nine counties across Illinois and Missouri, providing emergency services, housing support, food assistance, disaster response, and weekly ministries. These vital programs are made possible through donations and the success of the Quincy and Hannibal Family Stores.
Ready to Lead With Purpose?
If you're looking for a full-time retail leadership role where your skills truly make a difference, we invite you to apply today and help us continue doing the most good right here in our community.
Qualifications:
The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are back-to-work, minorities, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice systems, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for this position, please call Dylan Altmix, Human Resources Assistant, at 217-231-5655.
*The Salvation Army work sites are Drug & Alcohol Free Workplaces, and are totally free of the use, possession or working under the influence of illegal drugs and alcohol.
*The Salvation Army, as a church, is exempt from participation in federal and state unemployment insurance programs. Upon termination, employees are not eligible for Unemployment Compensation.
Salary : $17