Thrift Store Assistant

The Retail Helper supports the daily operations of our nonprofit thrift store by providing friendly customer service, processing donations, maintaining an organized and welcoming shopping environment, and assisting individuals with disabilities. This role is essential to ensuring a positive experience for customers, donors, and program participants. Retail Helpers work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and clients to support the mission of the organization.

Job Duties

• Greet and assist customers in a courteous and welcoming manner
• Operate the point-of-sale system to check out customers accurately
• Answer basic questions about the store, donations, and pricing

• Sort, inspect, and process donated items
• Clean, tag, price, and prepare items for sale
• Organize merchandise by category and restock shelves and racks as needed

• Keep sales floor, work areas, and donation areas neat and clutter-free
• Perform general housekeeping duties, including sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, and maintaining restrooms

• Assist and support consumers who work and volunteer in the thrift store
• Model appropriate workplace behavior and provide encouragement as needed

• Assume other responsibilities as directed.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Previous retail or customer service experience is helpful but not required
• Ability to communicate with individuals with disabilities.
• Physical ability to assist clients and use assistive devices.
• Knowledge of American Sign Language preferred.
• Successful completion of a Caregiver Background Check.
• Positive attitude and ability to motivate others.
• Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with Ventures staff, clients, customers, visitors, and members of the public.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Valid Wisconsin driver's license and ability to pass a DMV record check.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods
• Ability to lift and move items up to approximately 25-40 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks such as sorting, pricing, and stocking merchandise