About The Inspired Starfish: The Inspired Starfish is more than just a thrift store – we're a mission-driven enterprise selling gently loved furnishings and home goods to support a vital cause. All proceeds directly benefit Foster Alumni Mentors, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young people who are aging out of the foster care system. By shopping and working with us, you're directly contributing to programming that provides crucial support, guidance, and resources to help these young adults thrive in Grand Junction and beyond.
Position Summary: Retail and Furniture Pick-Up and Delivery Associate at The Inspired Starfish plays a key role in creating a positive and welcoming experience for our customers, both in and outside the store, while actively contributing to the overall success of our mission. This dynamic position involves a variety of tasks, from engaging customer service, efficient sales and thoughtful donation processing to ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of furniture donations and purchases. The ideal candidate is physically capable, has a strong work ethic, provides excellent customer service and is passionate about making a profound difference in the community.
This position offers up to 20 hours a week, and requires flexibility with weekends and fill in shifts.
Key Responsibilities:
Customer Service & Sales:
● Greet customers warmly and assist them in finding items, answering questions, and making purchasing decisions.
● Process sales transactions accurately and efficiently using a point-of-sale (POS) system.
● Handle cash, credit card, and other payment methods securely.
● Provide excellent customer service, resolving issues and ensuring a positive shopping experience that encourages repeat visits.
● Educate customers about The Inspired Starfish's mission and its powerful impact on Foster Alumni Mentors.
Pickup & Delivery:
● Safely and carefully pick up furniture donations from donors' homes.
● Deliver purchased furniture to customers' residences in a timely and professional manner. ● Lift and move heavy and bulky items throughout the day, often with assistance.
● Provide exceptional customer service, representing Inspired Starfish Thrift Store in a positive and friendly way.
● Maintain a clean and safe work environment, including the delivery vehicle.
● Accurately complete all necessary paperwork for pickups and deliveries.
Online Sales & Pricing Expertise:
● Utilize social media platforms (e.g., Instagram, Facebook) to showcase merchandise and engage potential buyers.
● Photograph and list items for sale online, including on platforms like Facebook Marketplace and other relevant e-commerce channels.
● Research market value and competitive pricing for donated items, ensuring optimal pricing.
● Apply knowledge of pricing strategies for unique, vintage, and high-value donated material.
Merchandising & Store Operations:
● Receive, sort, clean, and strategically price donated items, ensuring quality, appeal, and presentation standards are met.
● Arrange and display merchandise attractively on the sales floor, creating an inviting and inspiring shopping environment.
● Restock shelves and displays as needed, maintaining visual appeal.
● Assist with store opening and closing procedures, including cash handling and security checks.
● Maintain a clean and safe work environment, including light cleaning duties.
Donation Processing & Customer Experience:
● Accept and organize incoming donations with professionalism and gratitude, ensuring they meet store standards and processing them efficiently.
● Provide an amazing customer experience for donors, acknowledging their contribution and clearly communicating how their generosity supports our mission.
● Assist with loading and unloading donations as needed.
Team Collaboration:
● Work collaboratively with other team members and volunteers to achieve store goals, fostering a positive and supportive atmosphere.
● Communicate effectively with management regarding inventory, customer feedback, and operational needs.
● Participate in training and staff meetings as required, contributing to continuous improvement.
Qualifications:
● Previous retail sales or customer service experience preferred, but not required. We are willing to train the right candidate!
● Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a friendly and outgoing demeanor.
● Demonstrated ability to learn new technologies quickly, especially POS systems and online selling platforms.
● Basic computer proficiency is essential.
● Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
● Comfort with standing, walking, bending, and reaching for extended periods.
● Reliable transportation to and from our Grand Junction location.
● Availability to work weekends is required.
● Ability to lift heavy objects repeatedly throughout the day.
● Valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
● A positive attitude and a passion for our mission to support foster alumni mentors.
● A genuine interest in supporting the mission of Foster Alumni Mentors and a deep understanding of the positive impact of your work.
What We Offer:
● The profound opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of young adults aging out of foster care.
● A supportive, positive, and mission-driven work environment.
● The chance to be part of a growing social enterprise right here in the Grand Junction community.
● Valuable experience in retail operations, merchandising, online selling, and mission-driven work.
Pay: From $16.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Mileage reimbursement
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
