Assistant Store Manager

We are a cooperative; cooperation is at the heart of everything we do. At our Co-op, we believe cooperation means creating space for everyone. We strive to bring individuals together from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and life experiences to achieve shared goals. We practice kindness and foster a workplace where respect, acceptance, equity, honesty, and belonging are more than values, they are lived every day.

Why? Because connection strengthens us. It helps us build the ecosystem we want to work in and be part of.

And…because kindness matters Kindness nurtures community, and communities thrive when we all work together. If you're passionate about community and making a difference, we'd love to work with you.

***** Please note, interviews for this role will not begin until January.  *****

Position Overview:

The Assistant Store Manager supports the Store Manager by ensuring smooth day-to-day operations of the Co-op Food Store. This role is highly focused on hands-on supervision, customer service, and operational execution. The Assistant Store Manager works closely with staff and department managers to maintain store standards, deliver excellent service, support inventory management, and create a safe and welcoming environment for members and customers. This position is expected to be visible on the floor, actively engaging with staff and customers, addressing operational issues in real time, and ensuring store directives are carried out effectively. In the Store Manager's absence, the Assistant Store Manager assumes full responsibility for daily operations.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

1. Daily Store Operations:
   
   1. Oversee floor operations, ensure departments are properly staffed, and monitor workflows to maintain efficiency and service standards
2. Staff Supervision & Scheduling:
   
   1. Partner with HR and department managers to recruit, train, schedule, and supervise employees
   2. Provide coaching and feedback to drive accountability and performance
3. Customer Service:
   
   1. Actively assist customers, resolve complaints quickly, and set an example of high-quality service
4. Inventory & Merchandising:
   
   1. Work with department managers and Merchandising to monitor stock levels, maintain product displays, and ensure shelves are clean, full, and appealing
5. Health & Safety:
   
   1. Monitor compliance with all health, food safety, and workplace safety regulations
   2. Oversee store cleanliness and address issues immediately
6. Team Communication:
   
   1. Lead or participate in daily/weekly huddles, walk-throughs, and operations meetings
   2. Ensure information flows consistently between teams and leadership
7. Policy & Procedure Compliance:
   
   1. Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and security measures to maintain operational standards
8. Problem-Solving & Issue Resolution:
   
   1. Address staff issues, payroll questions, or performance challenges in collaboration with department managers and HR
9. Financial Awareness:
   
   1. Support store performance by monitoring labor hours, sales, and budget adherence
   2. Identify opportunities for improvement in underperforming areas
10. Store Standards:
    
    1. Ensure a clean, organized, and welcoming environment that reflects Co-op values and creates a positive shopping experience

Required Skills/Experience and Attributes:

1. High school diploma/GED required; additional education in business or retail management preferred
2. 5–7 years of retail management experience; grocery experience strongly preferred
3. Demonstrated experience supervising teams, scheduling staff, and managing performance
4. Strong customer service orientation with proven ability to resolve complaints effectively
5. Working knowledge of POS systems, inventory systems, and cash handling procedures
6. Knowledge of perishable departments and food safety standards
7. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills
8. Ability to merchandise effectively and maintain visual standards
9. Basic understanding of budgets and financial reporting (P&L exposure preferred)
10. Ability to lift 30–35 pounds regularly
11. Flexible schedule, including evenings, and weekends
12. Familiarity with and commitment to cooperative principles and Open Book Management

Schedule Requirements:

Flexible schedule to include one weekend and two closings shift per week. Flexibility to cover when the Store Manager is out or on vacation, and/or there is a need to cover additional closing shifts due to unexpected coverage shortages.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our employees are people with different strengths, experiences, and backgrounds. We share a common passion for our member-owned Co-op, communities, and for improving people's lives.

Diversity not only includes race and gender identity, but also age, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, religion and many other parts of one's identity. Every point of view helps shape our success, and fostering inclusion is everyone's responsibility.