What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sales Associate position at The Spice & Tea Exchange®?
Company Description The Spice & Tea Exchange® is a specialty retailer founded in 2008, dedicated to “creating and sharing the experience of a more flavorful life.” With an old-world spice traders’ atmosphere, the company offers more than 670 fresh and innovative products, including teas, spices, hand-mixed blends, naturally flavored sugars, salts from around the world, gift sets, and accessories. Its 95 stores serve home cooks, chefs, and tea enthusiasts seeking high-quality, distinctive flavors. The company is expanding through franchises across many U.S. states and territories and is committed to providing strong training and support to its franchise community. Team members help guests discover unique flavors and leave with memorable, sensory experiences.
Role Description This is a full-time, on-site Sales Associate role based in Newport, RI. The Sales Associate engages guests in the store, offering knowledgeable, friendly service while guiding them through teas, spices, blends, and related products. Responsibilities include greeting and assisting guests, answering product questions, providing samples when appropriate, and recommending items based on guest preferences and cooking or tea interests. The role also involves operating the point-of-sale system, handling cash and electronic payments accurately, restocking shelves, maintaining product displays, and helping keep the store clean and organized. Sales Associates support store promotions, contribute to meeting sales goals, follow company policies and procedures, and collaborate with team members and leadership to deliver a consistent, high-quality guest experience.
Qualifications
- Candidates should possess strong customer service and interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage guests, listen actively, and communicate clearly.
- Candidates should possess sales and retail skills such as basic merchandising, point-of-sale operation, and cash-handling accuracy.
- Candidates should possess organizational skills, including attention to detail, ability to follow procedures, and maintain a clean, well-stocked store environment.
- Candidates should possess an interest in food, cooking, and teas, with a willingness to learn product features, flavor profiles, and usage recommendations.
- Candidates should possess reliability and teamwork skills, including punctuality, flexibility to work weekends or holidays as needed, and the ability to collaborate with a diverse team.
- Additional beneficial qualifications include prior experience in retail or hospitality, basic computer skills, and the ability to stand for extended periods and lift moderate weights as part of regular store operations.