What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Store Manager position at West Chester Co-op?
hands-on leader supporting all areas of our community-owned co-op grocery
About West Chester Food Cooperative
West Chester Cooperative is a community-owned grocery store committed to providing fresh, local, and sustainable food while strengthening our regional food system. As a community-owned cooperative, we enable members to make informed, ethical food choices that support both our local economy and the well-being of our community. Our Values Community: A welcoming space for all that fosters connections and shared values. Local & Sustainable Food: Prioritizing local, responsibly sourced products. Transparency & Education: Honest communication and learning opportunities. Accessibility: We aim to provide high-quality healthful food at reasonable prices.
Description
Assistant Store Manager – Community-Owned Grocery
The Assistant Store Manager is a fully cross-trained, hands-on leader supporting all areas of our community-owned co-op grocery, including Front End, Fresh Departments (Produce, Meat & Cheese, Bulk, Grab & Go), Grocery & Wellness, and Receiving.
Reporting to the General Manager, this role ensures smooth daily operations while upholding cooperative values, exceptional member-owner service, food safety standards, and strong financial controls.
This role is more than retail management — it is an opportunity to help lead a purpose-driven, community-owned grocery store.
Join the founding team launching West Chester’s community-owned grocery store and help build a market that supports local farms, producers, and our community. Assistant Store Managers play an important role in creating a welcoming neighborhood market while strengthening the regional food system.
About the West Chester Cooperative
The West Chester Cooperative is a community-owned grocery store located in the Borough of West Chester, PA. Our mission is to provide high-quality food while supporting local farms, local producers, and a resilient regional food system.
Our store is owned by hundreds of community member-owners who believe in good food, sustainability, and strengthening the local economy.
Opening a new co-op grocery is an exciting opportunity to help build something meaningful for the community.
Compensation & Benefits
Hourly Rate Starts at $22/hour and is commensurate with experience
Full-time position (35 hours per week)
Health benefits, paid time off, employee discounts
Leadership development through cross-department experience
Opportunity to grow with the West Chester Cooperative as part of our founding team
Key Responsibilities
Lead and support team members across all departments in alignment with co-op values
Deliver outstanding service to customers and member-owners
Ensure accurate pricing, merchandising, shrink control, and inventory flow
Oversee cash handling, POS operations, and loss prevention procedures
Maintain food safety, workplace safety, and labor compliance standards
Supervise receiving, storage, and back-of-house organization
Serve as Manager on Duty, making real-time operational decisions
Coach, train, and support team development
Qualifications
Supervisory experience in grocery, food service, or retail
Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Commitment to cooperative values and community engagement
Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
Co-op or natural foods grocery experience is a plus
Coachability and ability to follow established SOP guidelines
Be, or become upon hiring, a member-owner of the West Chester Cooperative
Physical Capabilities & Work Environment
Ability to read labels, distinguish color and smell, and communicate effectively
Frequently lift and carry 30–45 lbs (boxes, tools, product)
Ability to stoop, kneel, and maneuver safely to retrieve items
Movement-based role with the majority of time spent walking and standing
Regular work in cold environments such as coolers, freezers, and back-stock areas
Equal Opportunity Employer
West Chester Cooperative is committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
Work Location: In person
Salary
$22 - $25 per hour
Salary : $22 - $25